Smart operation and control of offices to improve comfort and energy performance

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Buildings play a significant role in our environmental impact (e.g., 53% of electricity use and 35% of greenhouse gas emissions), comprise of about 15% of Canada's gross domestic product, and represent our living and working environment for over 90% of the time. Net-zero energy buildings have great potential to reduce buildings' impact. However, in order to achieve this ambitious target, it is critical that buildings not only be designed, but also operated, near-optimally. The proposed project comprises of complementary parts to significantly improve the performance of commercial buildings at the office and zone scale: 1) development and experimental validation of novel virtual sensors for estimating comfort and energy-related variables and states and 2) development and field testing of adaptive, building/occupant-learning controls that were previously developed by the applicant's team. The project involves the partnership of two leading Carleton University researchers, one new and an accomplished PhD student, and Canada-based Delta Controls Inc., for a four-year term. Delta Controls leads the building controls market and has previously collaborated with the researchers for the past three years. They have the capacity to uptake the research results and develop them into marketable products or services. Delta Controls has committed to playing a major supporting role, including: student training, equipment and software, technical advice and support, and the assistance with field testing and laboratory setup. The novel outcomes of this research include development of virtual sensors and adaptive controls for offices. Together, these systems are expected to reduce energy use by over 30%, while increasing occupant comfort and productivity. Aside from helping Canada achieve its objectives in emissions and reducing the need for energy infrastructure, the developed virtual sensors and control algorithms will position the industry partner to be first to the global market in advanced office building controls and operations.