CH-24-C027 - Revolutionary Energy Management: Rethinking the Paradigm

Imagine a world where energy management systems defy conventional wisdom and bring about remarkable results. The prevailing notion of reducing energy consumption by optimizing HVAC and lighting efficiency is being challenged. We have been approaching it all wrong! Traditionally, the focus has been on making energy-consuming devices more efficient or using them for shorter durations. While this approach has its merits, it fails to address a crucial aspect—the thermal dynamics of buildings. It is time to shift our perspective and embrace a truly groundbreaking strategy. Consider this: lowering the temperature of the air by 1°C is relatively straightforward compared to cooling down the furniture, flooring, walls, and other building materials. These elements possess significant thermal mass that require substantial energy to affect. It's time to unlock the full potential of the building itself as an energy reservoir—a thermal battery waiting to be harnessed. Imagine if we could pre-load the building with heating or cooling, viewing it as a reservoir of energy that can be tapped into as needed. This ingenious approach has the power to revolutionize energy consumption, decarbonization, and comfort levels. By leveraging the capabilities of the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), we can orchestrate this process with unprecedented precision, delivering remarkable energy reduction and unparalleled comfort. This paper will explore how this is happening today, the successes and challenges. So, let's break free from the shackles of conventional thinking and embark on an extraordinary journey towards energy management that will transform the way we perceive and utilize our built spaces. The possibilities are endless, and the rewards are immense. Welcome to the future of energy management!