In the heart of Italy, a groundbreaking retrofit project is redefining the future of smart building energy systems. Led by Lorenzo Villani from the Department of Astronautical, Electrical and Energy Engineering at Sapienza University of Rome, this innovative approach combines Machine Learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create a sustainable and efficient energy management solution for the hospitality sector. The research, published in the journal Buildings, offers a glimpse into how integrated technologies can revolutionize building renovations, paving the way for a greener and more efficient future.
The study focuses on a hotel in Sardinia, where the team implemented a multi-stage process to overhaul the building’s energy systems. By analyzing long-term climatic data and on-site technical documentation, they created a detailed BIM model. This model enabled energy simulations using the Carrier–Pizzetti method, supporting the design of a hybrid HVAC system that integrates Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and hydronic circuits. The system is further enhanced by a custom ML algorithm, which uses data fusion from BIM and IoT sensors to provide adaptive, predictive energy management.
One of the standout features of this project is the integration of photovoltaic panels and solar collectors, significantly reducing the hotel’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources. “The combination of these technologies allows us to create a self-regulating and self-managing energy system,” explains Villani. “This not only improves energy efficiency but also ensures optimal indoor comfort for guests.”
The results of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of smart energy management, showcasing significant potential for scalability in similar building typologies. The hybrid HVAC system, coupled with renewable energy sources, has proven to be a game-changer in reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. “We’ve seen a marked improvement in energy efficiency and a reduction in operational costs,” Villani notes. “This approach can be replicated in other hotels and even extended to other types of buildings.”
The research highlights the transformative role of ML, IoT, and BIM in achieving sustainable, smart, and efficient building energy systems. By leveraging these technologies, building managers can reduce energy consumption, improve indoor environmental quality, and lower operating and maintenance costs. This integrated approach offers a replicable framework for sustainable renovations in the hospitality sector and beyond.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As buildings account for approximately 36% of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, innovative solutions like this are crucial in the fight against climate change. The study’s findings suggest that similar projects could significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the built environment, making a substantial contribution to global sustainability goals.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to introduce a temporal evolution model, refine feature selection using advanced optimization techniques, and expand validation across multiple case studies. These future improvements will further enhance the accuracy and reliability of the smart energy management system, making it an even more attractive option for building owners and managers.
The integration of smart technologies in building energy systems is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. As the demand for sustainability grows, so does the need for innovative solutions that can adapt to changing environmental conditions and user needs. This research, published in the journal Buildings, provides a blueprint for the future of smart building energy systems, offering a glimpse into a world where buildings are not just structures, but intelligent, self-sustaining entities that contribute to a greener planet.
