Produced in Association with


SERIES 22 / Module 10 Smart Buildings


Figure 1 – Automation and data collection are essential for the operation of a smart building


sensors, IoT (Internet of Things) devices and automation, smart buildings can respond in real-time to changing conditions, optimise energy consumption, enhance user comfort and reduce operational costs. For a building to be truly smart it needs to be connected to the smart electricity grid and able to communicate and understand when energy is in high or low demand in order for import and export decisions to be made. Key features of smart buildings


Smart Buildings By Paul Bennett of BSSEC A


s the world progresses towards a more sustainable future, energy management


and optimisation have become key areas of focus for industries worldwide. One of the most revolutionary developments in the energy sector is the emergence of smart buildings. Smart buildings use advanced technologies and systems to improve the efficiency, comfort, and functionality of a building while reducing energy consumption and costs. For homeowners, and indeed


operators of commercial and industrial buildings, smart buildings enable the transition from being a consumer of energy to being a prosumer of energy, i.e. being able to chose when to import electricity or to generate and store energy and indeed when to export this energy. For energy professionals,


understanding smart buildings is essential for advising clients on smart strategies, staying competitive, contributing to sustainability goals and advancing in the industry.


For details on how to obtain your Energy Institute CPD Certificate, see ENTRY FORM and details on page 22


EIBI | MAY 2025


What are smart buildings? A smart building is a structure that uses integrated and interconnected systems to monitor and manage various aspects of the building,


including lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), security, and energy usage. Through


Table 1 – National Grid ESO Future Energy Scenarios (FES) for high and fast societal change


The 2050 ‘Smart Home’


High levels of insulation throughout the home Triple glazed windows Smart meter


Electric induction hob and oven Air source heat pump (ASHP)


All appliances are smart ‘A+++’ rated


Home energy management system Battery storage in house Solar panels on roof EV Charge point


Bicycles and use of autonomous vehicles


include: Low energy user-centric design: Smart buildings are well insulated buildings and designed with heat recovery and passive design features such as natural daylight at their core. The comfort and safety of occupants is paramount, utilising systems like smart lighting and climate control ensuring optimal energy performance. Automation: Automated systems


allow the building to perform tasks such as adjusting lighting or temperature based on occupancy or time of day. Data collection: Sensors collect


real-time data, which is analysed to improve efficiency and reduce energy waste. Energy management: Smart


buildings optimise energy use, often incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels with energy storage batteries to balance energy flows from import, storage, consumption and export.


Technologies used in smart buildings


1. Building insulation & low energy design The design and insulation levels of a building are critical factors in energy efficiency. Smart buildings use advanced materials and insulation techniques, combined with smart energy systems, to maintain optimal indoor climates with minimal energy input. The optimum design being


Produced in Association with


EIBI | OCTOBER 2022


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