Building Energy Studies – Building Life-cycle Optimization and Diagnosis

Buildings consume over 40% of the energy worldwide, accounting for over 80% of the overall energy consumption in Hong Kong. Research studies are conducted with the objective of reducing GHG emissions and operation costs by enhancing the efficiency of building energy systems and effective use of renewable energy resources. These studies constitute a comprehensive approach together with a set of innovative/effective methods and technologies to support the energy system optimization, diagnosis and commissioning at different stages over the entire building life-cycle. The main research areas are: (1) optimal design and optimized integration of renewable generations; (2) optimal control methods/strategies; and (3) energy system assessment, diagnosis and commissioning.

The research outputs of building life-cycle optimization and diagnosis, a major research theme in building energy studies, have made significant impacts in industrial applications. The methodologies/technologies developed have attracted over HK$25 million in industrial/government contracts for the applications and technology development in a large number of projects. These technology applications and technologies themselves have contributed to 15% to 42% of annual energy savings in the buildings, leading to five international awards and the establishment of three technology-driven firms as well as one licensed patent.

International Commerce Centre (ICC) – Building Energy and Automation Research Laboratory has been extensively involved in the optimization, optimized control and retro-commissioning since 2005