Renewable Energy Integration with Building Energy Systems

Construction, as an industry sector, is responsible for around one-third of the total worldwide energy usage and about 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. The rise in the number of buildings and floor space area for residential and commercial purposes has imposed enormous pressure on existing energy sources. Implementations such as efficient usage of building energy systems, design measures, utilization of local energy resources, energy storage, and the use of renewable energy sources to meet electricity demands are currently under development and deployment for improving the energy performance index. However, integrating all such measures and the development of nearly zero-energy and zero-emission buildings is yet to be explored. In this book, the different control techniques and intelligent technologies used to improve the energy performance of buildings are illustrated. Every building energy control system has a two-fold objective for energy and comfort requirements to achieve a high comfort index (for thermal, visual, air quality, humidity, and various plug loads) and increase the energy performance index. The most significant aspect in the design of a buildings energy control system is modelling. All the components, methodologies, and processes involved in developing a renewable energy-driven building are covered in detail. This book is intended for graduates and professionals working towards the development of a sustainable built environment using renewable energy sources.