Adopting occupancy-based HVAC controls in commercial building energy codes: Analysis of cost-effectiveness and decarbonization potential

Recent research has shown the energy-saving potential of occupancy-based HVAC controls (OBCs) in commercial buildings. However, building energy codes have not fully adopted this technology. This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and decarbonization benefits of OBCs and provide guidance for integrating occupancy sensors into building energy code development. To this end, a parametric simulation using EnergyPlus and a nationwide cost-effectiveness analysis are carried out considering three building types and 40 representative cities in the U.S. The findings reveal that the current cost-effectiveness performance of OBCs is limited due to the high cost of occupancy sensors. However, incorporating the societal cost of carbon factor in future energy and environmental policy could greatly enhance the actual cost-effectiveness performance. Besides, a reduction in the cost of occupancy sensors to approximately 60% of the current price level could also greatly shorten the dis-counted payback period of OBCs. Additionally, OBCs demonstrate significant potential in building decarbon-ization, with potential CO2 emissions savings of more than 5.56 million metric tons across the three building types and 40 selected cities. Finally, policy implications are provided to guide the incorporation of occupancy-based HVAC controls in future energy codes.

Automated summary

Recent research shows that occupancy-based HVAC controls (OBCs) can save energy in commercial buildings, but the adoption of this technology in building energy codes is not widespread. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness and decarbonization benefits of OBCs and provides guidance for integrating occupancy sensors into building energy code development. The findings reveal that the current cost-effectiveness of OBCs is limited due to the high cost of occupancy sensors, but considering the societal cost of carbon factor can greatly enhance their cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, reducing the cost of occupancy sensors and incorporating OBCs in building energy codes can lead to significant CO2 emissions savings.