Fulfilling Eco-needs With Energy-Efficient Metrics in Tropical-Zone Office Buildings

Abstract

Current office buildings in temperate climate zones may suffer from inefficient energy utilization that does not match the workers' demands. This research was inclined to detect the primary environmental need and determine energy-related metrics that help to sustain those environmental conditions. The study contained both qualitative and quantitative methods presented from other case studies due to the limitations we had. One of quantitative methods included surveys that helped us to comprehend the favorable environmental need to address from office occupants: indoor air quality. Another quantitative method involved analyzing energy records that served as a tool to define energy-efficiency metrics. Contrary, qualitative methods like interviews from experts were beneficial for understanding the specific problem with air quality systems, particularly regarding HVAC. To address the needs of refining air quality, we particularly found energy-efficient performance parameters-correlating metrics - containing such as HVAC consumption, outdoor temperature, and occupancy - and control systems strategies for air quality testing: BMS, VAV, and VFD. Altogether, this research found and promoted energy efficiency with occupants' needs in temperate climate office buildings, focusing on air quality improvement through refined control systems and performance metrics. Further research can potentially be conducted in office buildings located in more harsh climate zones. Moreover, due to research constraints, we were unable to conduct on-site visits to office buildings. Therefore, our future actions will focus on conducting in-person interviews during site visits to gain deeper insights into environmental requirements. We will also make efforts to obtain energy consumption records from the building administrations.