A pioneering research project in Bidart, France, has unveiled a groundbreaking rule-based energy management system (RB-EMS) that promises to revolutionize the way buildings consume photovoltaic (PV) energy. Conducted by Haritza Camblong from the Department of Systems Engineering & Control at the University of the Basque Country, this study not only addresses pressing energy efficiency challenges but also sets a precedent for the construction sector in the era of renewable energy.
The study, part of the Interreg V-A Poctefa EKATE project, focuses on the collective self-consumption (CSC) of PV energy within the Technology Park of Izarbel. The RB-EMS was designed specifically to optimize the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of the ESTIA2 building, thereby maximizing the self-consumption rate (SCR) of solar energy. “We aimed to ensure that the integration of renewable energy sources could meet both energy efficiency goals and user comfort,” Camblong stated, highlighting the dual focus of the research.
The results are compelling. The RB-EMS achieved an impressive SCR of 89%, a significant leap from the 48% recorded without the system. This translates to an 85% improvement in energy utilization, a figure that could have profound implications for energy management in commercial buildings. As the construction industry grapples with regulatory pressures to enhance energy efficiency, such innovations could provide the necessary tools to meet compliance while also reducing operational costs.
The methodology developed for this RB-EMS is notable for its practicality. It is adaptable to any building with HVAC systems reliant on heat pumps, making it a versatile solution for a range of commercial applications. “Our findings suggest that this approach can serve as a guideline for energy system designers and managers seeking to implement efficient energy management systems,” Camblong added, emphasizing the broader applicability of the research.
However, the study did not shy away from addressing challenges. The researchers identified issues related to the precision and reliability of the information and communication technology (ICT) used to manage energy data. Time delays in data retrieval from the cloud were particularly problematic, prompting plans for a local LoRa network to enhance data management in future implementations.
As the construction sector continues to shift towards sustainability, this research underscores the critical role of innovative energy management systems in achieving decarbonization goals. With the European Union pushing for stringent energy efficiency directives, the RB-EMS could be a game-changer, enabling buildings to significantly reduce their reliance on external energy sources while optimizing their internal energy use.
This research was published in ‘Energies’, a journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the field of energy. For more insights into this groundbreaking work, you can visit the Department of Systems Engineering & Control at the University of the Basque Country. As the world moves toward a greener future, projects like this one may well shape the trajectory of energy management in the building sector.
