Feasibility study of using intelligent building services components to improve energy efficiency

 Project programme: The project comprises 3 phases: Phase 1: Application and use of 'intelligence'. Phase 2: Interaction between components. Phase 3: Report. Status: Intelligent components and systems provide the possibility for improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. This can be achieved either directly (better management) or indirectly (increased awareness of energy consumption). The 'intelligent' house has been discussed for some years, and worldwide there are examples of advanced demonstration houses based on interactive total-system concepts. Information technology is under steady development and is largely based on microelectronics, which can be built into individual components. Intelligent components and systems will play an important part in increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact in buildings' plumbing and ventilation installations and systems and in the process industry. Current trends are towards components rather than systems as components are easier to manage and are more flexible. Successful interaction between different components is imperative. Development depends also on human habits and behaviour patterns. If the demands placed on the user are too high, the possibilities will be insufficiently utilised. Expected results: The project will illustrate the possibility of using intelligent components to achieve increases energy efficiency in plumbing and ventilation installations and of the reduced environmental impact that follows. Future possibilities of using intelligent components in the building services sector will be reviewed