The role of Thermally Activated Building Systems (TABS) in building energy retrofitting: energy diagnosis and management

Abstract

Thermally Activated Building Systems (TABS) play a major role in building envelope integration. TABS operate at low temperatures, enabling efficient utilization of renewable sources. Moreover, their combination with other building energy systems provides a high degree of dynamic interactivity with users, improving the quality of the indoor thermal environment. In this research, the efficiency of the technology of active pipe-embedded structures is investigated within its practical application in an existing office building energy retrofit in Spain. Concrete Core Activation (CCA) of the original horizontal structure aims at exploiting its thermal inertial properties and potential storage capability in combination with low-grade energy production systems and devices, such as geothermal heat pumps. A proper methodology of energy diagnosis is aimed at the optimization of TABS performance in building retrofitting. Significant energy savings could be achieved by applying appropriate solutions, control strategies and corrective actions for TABS. The continuity of energy management and follow-up has been proven necessary to keep high standards in terms of TABS energy performance, targeting the identification of energy saving opportunities for the improvement of energy efficiency.