Small- and Medium-Sized Building Automation and Control System Needs: Scoping Study Research Project

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is currently conducting a scoping research study of small- and medium-sized building automation and control system needs.

Project Description

This project seeks to develop a scoping study to identify the building automation system needs—such as end-uses and systems to be controlled—and control capabilities for small- and medium-sized buildings. Researchers also plan to develop a case study to show that building controls for small- and medium-sized buildings can be cost-effective. The monitoring needs to ensure proper and persistent operations will also be identified.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken by DOE and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Project Goals

The overarching goal of the sensors and controls research is to capture 30% energy savings by enhanced management of energy consuming assets and systems through development of cost-effective sensors and controls.

Benefits and Impacts

Building controls have the technical potential to reduce U.S. commercial building heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC); and lighting energy consumption by about one quad of primary energy annually, or roughly 6% of current total use. Development of cost-effective building automation systems for small- and medium-sized buildings will make these buildings more energy efficient. A building automation system for small- and medium-sized buildings should be able to monitor and control major end-uses—such as HVAC, exhaust fans, and lighting systems—from anywhere in a coordinated way, such as through the Internet, smart phones, or computers.

Contact Information

George Hernandez
george.hernandez@ee.doe.gov

U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy