Recent research published in ‘IEEE Access’ has unveiled a groundbreaking approach to energy management in electrified apartment buildings (APBs), a sector increasingly focused on sustainability and cost-efficiency. Led by M. Cho from the Global Zero Emission Research Center in Japan, the study highlights the potential of advanced energy management systems (EMSs) to optimize both economic and social benefits for residents and building managers alike.
Electrified APBs, equipped with heat pumps, air conditioners, home appliances, photovoltaic (PV) power sources, and battery energy storage (BES) systems, are at the forefront of this research. The proposed EMS operates on a two-stage structure, beginning at the household level and scaling up to the building management level. This innovative approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of energy consumption patterns and the integration of renewable energy sources.
Cho emphasizes the dual focus of the EMS: “For households, we aimed to balance electricity costs with comfort, while for building managers, the focus was on minimizing total electricity costs and peak power demand.” This duality is crucial, as it addresses the competing needs of individual residents and the broader management goals of the apartment complex.
The case study, which analyzed data from a 100-dwelling APB in Japan, demonstrated remarkable results. The proposed EMS reduced total peak demand significantly more than traditional home energy management systems (HEMSs) and original data scenarios, achieving a peak demand of 172 kW compared to 207 kW and 230 kW, respectively. Importantly, this reduction was accomplished without increasing the total electricity cost, thanks to the time-of-use pricing model.
Moreover, the research found that enhancing the PV source and BES further decreased both total costs and peak demand. However, it also revealed an increase in charging demand during low-price periods, indicating an opportunity for future optimization. “Our findings suggest that effectively managing the demand of APBs alongside renewable energy sources can lead to substantial financial benefits for both residents and management,” Cho noted.
The implications of this research extend far beyond individual buildings. As the construction sector grapples with the dual pressures of sustainability and rising energy costs, the insights from this study could drive a paradigm shift in how residential energy systems are designed and managed. With a growing emphasis on carbon neutrality, the ability to integrate renewable resources effectively will be a key differentiator for developers and property managers looking to attract eco-conscious tenants.
This research not only sets the stage for future developments in energy management but also underscores the importance of collaborative approaches in building design and operation. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of smart technologies and renewable energy sources will likely become a standard practice, paving the way for a more sustainable urban environment.
For more information about M. Cho and the Global Zero Emission Research Center, you can visit their website at Global Zero Emission Research Center.
