In this report from May 2021, researchers with the Energy Studies in Building Lab at the University of Oregon describe ways to improve utilization of the presently disparate LLLC and BAS data streams to support energy efficiency and improve human comfort and human health outcomes. Published by BetterBricks, a commercial resource produced by NEEA (Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance), the report outlines key potential benefits that include: improved ventilation management to support improved cognitive function; improved vertical field lighting scene management to reduce glare and improve circadian exposure; and data integration and situational awareness to support building operations that will reduce pathogen transmission risk. There are, however, notable obstacles to delivering on that vision, ranging from poor hardware and software interoperability and privacy/security concerns to the (complex) need to optimize the number and types of sensors in a network.
Key Words: Access Controls, Automated Meter Reading (AMI), Connected/ EV Vehicles, Connected Home, Energy Management, HVAC, Intelligent Building, Internet of Things (IoT), Large Building Controls/Automation, Lighting Systems/Controls, Power over Ethernet (PoE), Property Management, Protocols/Standards