Automated Buildings as Active Energy Consumers

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of buildings as active consumers in electrical power grids, with a focus on concepts and implementation possibilities (here: BACnet, ZigBee). In recent years, the idea of energy management using building automation came again into the focus of attention in the light of CO 2 reduction policies and the increasing need to reduce energy consumption. Large functional buildings hold a significant share in total energy demand, so it is promising to make use of existing automation infrastructures to increase energy efficiency in buildings. Energy savings can however not only be achieved in the building itself, but also by optimizing the interaction between the building and the energy supply infrastructure, mainly the electrical power grid. Instead of being passive energy consumers, buildings have the ability to shift energy consumption in time and therefore can act as active consumers, supporting the power grid and integration of renewables.