Stanford researchers have designed an energy allocation system which integrates centralized and distributed optimization and decision-making. This system is designed to minimize energy use incorporate individual preferences and enable sophisticated demand response. Current systems are limited to occupancy sensors and basic daylight compensation strategies that do not account for the variety of preferences in a building which can lead to poor performance. They are also incapable of truly optimizing restricted energy resources across a building and cannot inform decision makers of the performance costs of energy use reduction. This system integrates all of these capabilities to reduce energy consumption thereby reducing operating costs while providing a quality occupant experience. Stage of Research: - Prototype hardware system developed and tested - Software simulation completed
1) Minimizes energy use 2) Reduces operating costs 3) Utilizes wireless technology facilitating retrofit & reconfigurable spaces 4) Multi-level system for fast local response while providing centralized information management 5) Customizable 6) Allows tailored controls for varied preferences 7) Provides system performance information to the building manager 8) Provides information regarding explicit tradeoff between energy use and building performance 9) Provides periodic automated commissioning and updating to capture lighting system degradation over time