Real-world implementation of a cloud-based MPC for HVAC control in educational buildings

• Published in: Energy conversion and management 2024-04, Vol.305 (C), p.118270, Article 118270
• Main Authors: Taheri, Saman, Amiri, Alireza Jafarian, Razban, Ali
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Building management systems; Cloud-based solutions; Educational Buildings; HVAC
• ISSN: 0196-8904; 1879-2227
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2024.118270

In their quest to enhance energy efficiency and carbon footprint management, many enterprises are turning their attention towards optimizing their facilities through amplified data monitoring and innovative control methods. In this context, this research highlights a practical solution in a commercial building located in the United States. It explains the creation, implementation, and costs of a universally applicable model predictive control (MPC) framework for the building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The paper elaborates on both the hardware and software used to accumulate pertinent data and the formulation of the MPC system. This approach leverages cloud-based microservices and can be seamlessly integrated into current building management systems. In this regard, this paper presents three innovative strategies: Proportional–integral (PI)+Preheating, MPC, and occupancy-based control. These scenarios were designed to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort significantly by reducing temperature fluctuations and adhering more closely to the setpoint temperature. The implementation of these strategies resulted in substantial energy savings, with reductions in energy consumption of 12.83%, 19.21%, and 14.98%, respectively. •A novel cloud-based MPC scheme is proposed for controlling the educational building HVAC system.•Real-world case installation details are provided with a focus on cost and sensor information.•A comprehensive discussion on thermal modeling, occupants’ comfort, and control performance.