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Integrated Predictive Demand Response Controller Research Project

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is currently conducting research into integrated predictive demand response (IPDR) controllers.

The project team will attempt to design an IPDR controller so that it can be used in new or existing buildings or in collections of buildings. In the case of collections of buildings, they may be colocated on a single campus or remotely located as long as they are served by a single utility or independent service operator.

Project Description

This project seeks to perform the necessary applied research, development, and testing to provide a communications interface using industry standard open protocols and emerging National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards to receive real-time pricing signals from utilities or power retailers. The system will use the open-automated demand response protocol or other utility protocol standards to receive curtailment signals and real-time pricing data.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken by DOE and Johnson Controls, Inc.

Project Goals

The goal of this project is to ensure reliable and affordable electricity by taking advantage of the significant potential to reduce demand in buildings and give building owners and occupants an automated means to respond to real-time pricing signals, critical-peak pricing signals, or curtailment events to minimize their energy costs while maintaining occupant comfort and productivity.

Benefits and Impacts

This project will research and develop controllers, which are key enabling technologies for achieving net-zero energy, high-performance buildings over the next decade. These technologies enable an energy reduction strategy that operates against the largest loads in a commercial building—such as heating, cooling, lighting, computer, and plug loads—when the electric grid is stressed. If successful, at completion of this project, this system will be ready to be deployed commercially to an existing market channel providing job creation and preservation within the building controls industry.

Related Links

• American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Grant Award Summary
• Johnson Controls, Inc.

Contact Information

Yana Rasulova
Yana.rasulova@go.doe.gov