As we stand on the brink of a new era in energy, building professionals are at the forefront of a transformation that will reshape the electricity sector and, by extension, the built environment. The ASHRAE document “New Energy Future” emphasises the critical role that the buildings sector plays as the number one customer of the electrical grid, highlighting the need for professionals to adapt to significant upcoming changes.
The traditional 20th-century electrical grid, which has long been the backbone of energy distribution, is now facing challenges from new policies and technologies. The transition from a one-way electricity flow to a dynamic, bidirectional exchange is central to this evolution. The smart grid is the linchpin of this transformation, enabling buildings to transition from passive consumers to active partners in managing electricity.
Zero Energy Buildings (ZEBs) represent a growing trend where buildings not only minimise energy consumption but also produce renewable energy on-site. However, this shift places additional stress on the traditional grid, designed for centralised power generation. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind become more prevalent, the grid must adapt to manage these intermittent and decentralised energy flows.
Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including rooftop solar, wind turbines, and battery storage, are revolutionising how energy is produced and consumed. These resources are typically located closer to the point of use, requiring the grid to accommodate a more complex flow of electricity. The integration of DERs will necessitate significant changes in grid infrastructure and utility business models, pushing the industry towards a more decentralised and resilient energy system.
Electric vehicles (EVs) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are also poised to have a profound impact on both the electricity sector and building operations. EVs, which are expected to comprise 33% of all vehicles by 2040, will significantly increase electricity demand, while IoT devices will allow for more granular control and optimisation of building energy use.
Building professionals are encouraged to actively engage with these emerging trends. This involves staying informed about new technologies, participating in industry discussions, and considering how to integrate smart grid capabilities into building designs. The document urges professionals to become leaders in the transition to a sustainable energy future, ensuring that buildings not only meet current demands but also contribute to a more resilient and efficient electrical grid.
S-BMS® is a Smart Building Management System from VEXO that utilises the latest technologies in IoT and data analytics to simplify BMS installations and optimise building performance. Using LoRaWAN IoT devices, S-BMS provides real-time monitoring, automated control and dynamic control of various zones and HVAC systems through a secure cloud server meaning facilities teams are always connected and avoiding unnecessary callouts. This enables building owners, landlords and facilities managers to save on energy consumption, reduce CO2 emissions and improve comfort for occupants.
The transition to a new energy future presents both challenges and opportunities. For building professionals, this is a time to innovate and lead, ensuring that the built environment adapts to and benefits from the changes ahead. By embracing smart grid technology, integrating DERs, and preparing for the widespread adoption of EVs and IoT, the buildings sector can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable and resilient energy future.
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