I don’t often write about or plug my research here in any way, mainly because up until this year, it was really just a work in progress. After nearly three years of examining operational strategies for mixed mode buildings through model predictive control, it turns out there is actually quite a bit to say that may be of use to operators and designers of these types of facilities. Mixed mode buildings utilize a combination of traditional mechanical HVAC systems and natural ventilation to meet comfort and hygiene requirements. My research utilizes model predictive control (mathematical optimization of building energy models) to benchmark energy- and comfort-optimal strategies for operating these types of buildings, with the goal of informing better guidelines for the design and operator communities. We’ll be looking at questions such as: when do occupants operate windows in an energy-optimal manner, and when do they waste energy? When should operators switch between mechanical and natural cooling?
Next Tuesday, December 13th at 3PM ET, our research team will be giving a USGBC members-only webinar on the outcomes of our research to date. You can register for the event here. And yes, unfortunately you or your organization will need to have a USGBC membership to participate. I have no control over this.
Update: you can actually watch the recorded presentation here. Thanks USGBC!
