Solar-based pre-heating and pre-cooling of buildings to reduce overnight energy demand

Abstract

This research investigates dynamic control of the interior temperature of buildings, which are largely heated or cooled using solar energy. This can match heating demands to availability of solar energy, reducing demand for non-solar energy. Simulations were used to assess the potential savings. Pre-warming (warming before sunset) was used for a sample building in a cold climate (Beijing), and pre-cooling (cooling before sunset) was used for a sample building in a hot climate (Hong Kong). In each case - heating and cooling - the effectiveness of dynamic temperature control was assessed by comparing the non-solar energy requirement with a baseline, in which a constant temperature was maintained overnight. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2014.