Research project of POE on energy autonomous studio at Dundee

Research Project:

POST OCCUPANCY EVALUATION DESIGN STUDY FOR ENERGY

AUTONOMOUS PROTOTYPE STUDIO IN DUNDEE BOTANICS GARDEN, SCOTLAND, UK

TOPICS:

* CASE STUDY - SIMPLE POE APPLICATION: PLUMMERSWOOD PRIVATE HOUSING, CARDRONA, SCOTLAND

* CASE STUDY - SIMPLE POE APPLICATION: TIGH-NA-CLADACH, DUNOON, SCOTLAND

* CASE STUDY - SEMI SOPHISTICATED POE APPLICATION: SIGMA HOUSE, WATFORD, ENGLAND

* CASE STUDY - SOPHISTICATED POE APPLICATION: MONTE ROSA HUT, ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND

* POE SYSTEM DESIGN FOR STUDIO IN BOTANIC GARDENS IN DUNDEE

* DISCUSSION, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Abstract

Building Performance has always taken primary attention of designers, architects, civil engineers and many other related disciplines. However, the building performance not only at the design stage, but also after the occupancy stage is named as Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) importance that has yet realised greater in recent years’ studies both in theory and in practice. In this relation, the building performance of the first totally renewable-powered Energy Autonomous Prototype Studio in the UK constructed in Dundee Botanic Gardens has risen a great interest of understanding in terms of

physical and technical performance, energy generation and storage technologies, indoor air quality and interaction with user behaviour. Therefore, the question towards establishment of POE method for the achievement of optimum building performance after occupation in this particular structure

has to be answered.

The research examines initially the definition of POE and the evaluated major issues in relation to POE are identified. Two aspects of view are highlighted as POE in theory and POE in practice in order to develop an insight against POE method in Energy Autonomous Prototype Studio. Afterwards, the key projects are chosen as a case study to analyse their building performance in relation to POE. The major established methods and inspected studies in these case studies are illustrated in a variety of ways. The key people who have involved to conduct these methods and studies are contacted and

provided a comprehensive aspect of this research.

The results of this research provide evidence of the importance of POE in broad perspective. The findings of case studies show a number of important points before an application of POE in Energy Autonomous Prototype Studio. A questionnaire and a drawing showing the instrumentation of tools are designed. From the aspect of case studies, the Monte Rosa Hut project is observed as the most similar project to the Prototype Studio after evaluation of case studies. Finally, the research concludes as a recommendation that the intelligent building management system, simulation technology and other associated systems in the building can be the topic of further research development.

Acknowledgements

First of all, I would like to thank my supervisor Neil Burford for giving me an opportunity to do a research on this particular area. During my research development, I am grateful for my supervisor Neil Burford and my tutors Garry Adam and Dr. Husam Al Waer support and guidance. At the same time, during my master programme, I would like to express my great appreciation to my programme leader Tamer Gado whose preliminary assistance, knowledge and teaching methods widened my understanding of my study. The lectures and advices given by Dr. Husam Al Waer has been a

considerable help especially in learning Sustainability.

It is a great pleasure to thank those who gained this thesis a comprehensive aspect of their view primarily, Ian Nimmo for his invitation to my case study, to his home, his hospitality and support, Prof. Sandy Halliday, Prof. Gokay Deveci, Dr. Michael Benz and Rolf Moser for their guidance towards

my questions. At last but not least, I wish to thank my family for their support and encouragement throughout my study.

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 - Overview

The Scottish government has already acknowledged by publishing ‘’A Low Carbon Building Standards Strategy For Scotland’’ in 2007, the importance of monitoring buildings in Scotland including occupants’ lifestyle and behavioural monitoring energy efficiency, carbon footprint as well as temperature, ventilation and other building performance indicators. The ‘consideration of ‘’PassivHaus’’ performance and its effect on occupant behaviour and comfort’ are added to the agenda. (Scottish Building Standards Agency, 2007, p. 08) This acknowledgement has been followed from the same year by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) (2007, p. 02) action plan towards a better understanding of building performance, primarily college and university buildings ‘’to modernise the delivery of education and to improve efficiency’’ through appointment of British Research Establishment (BRE) to undertake the Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) since 2007. (Scottish Funding Council, 2014)In addition, the Scottish Building Regulations (2013, p. 417)with its sustainability section, comfort of people in and around the building should be taken care for the potential of ‘long-term maintenance’ within the built environment.

These movements essentially indicate that the comprehensive approaches, strategies are being gradually progressed in terms of the contribution to the advancement of POE methods in both practice and theory in order to develop a continuous understanding majorly in building performance and occupant behavioural change and the relationship between each other in the Scottish Context. At this point, one of the most promising structures ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’, which is the first “off-grid" renewable energy powered structure has been constructed in Dundee Botanic Gardens in the UK. And, the building is primarily aimed and has been partially instrumented to obtain the data on the basis of: (Burford, 2013, p. 02)

Physical performance of the construction: One of features in relation to the understanding of physical performance of the building is that the installation of sensors. To monitor the changes in temperature of ‘foamed concrete foundation’ at the slab, screed and external levels, including sensors at different heights in the foundation will provide the required data. (macromicro studio, 2013; macromicro studio, 2012)
The performance of the energy generation and the storage technologies: The prototype is designed with the installation of renewable energy technologies; photovoltaics, wind turbine and battery systems that will assist to generate and preserve its own energy. (Burford, 2013, p. 25)
The user behaviour: The prototype as a “live-in laboratory” delivers an incorporated technical platform to observe the data associated with “occupants, the building fabric (e.g. opening windows) and technical systems (hot water use, ventilation etc.)”. And this data will enable to reflect to users' behaviour. For instance; adopted intelligent user control systems will allow users to amend of their energy consumption and/or control the building performance. (Burford, 2013, pp. 05-06)

The mentioned three data assessment above is essentially related to capturing data after the building in use. And, the assessment of buildings in use has progressively become recognized as POE. However, POE has approximately forty year history, it has yet become known and part of the program of many organizations, occupiers, designers, developers and public agencies practice all over the world. As in the definition of POE, it means that the measurement of the occupied building’s performance through systematic methods within the scope that:

Is conducted once the building has been operated fully after a considerable time past rather than design, construction or commissioning stage (Oseland, 2007, p. 05)
Is the achievement of disciplined and in-depth, centred on demonstrative and measured data rather than subjective indications or opinions (Oseland, 2007, p. 05)
Delivers feedback that enables to understand how much the building is successful in terms of meeting the occupier requirement and how well the building performance copes with the prior defined brief (Oseland, 2007, p. 05; Scottish Funding Council, 2007, p. 03; Stevenson, 2009, p. 01)
Create lesson learnt section which will enable an insight for the improvement of the design and operation of future workplaces (Oseland, 2007, p. 05; Scottish Funding Council, 2007, pp. 03-04)
In order to achieve feedback from users essentially to conduct questionnaire, interview or workshop and also it may require technical investigations. (Oseland, 2007, p. 05; Blyth, et al., 2006, p. 14)

Beside the major features of POE, this rigorous and systematic data assessment also brings new questions: If presumably any specified building could be the focus of POE, Leaman asks that ‘how many times should a POE be applied in the life cycle of a building (in use)?’ And, how often should be applied? (Poblete, 2013, p. 33) But also, there can be asked another question what sort of information or feedback should be captured? (Poblete, 2013, p. 42; Leaman, et al., 2010, p. 567)

Therefore, Edwards (2013, p. 70)and Poblete indicate that the major critical points in the POE system are to connect the two systems: Energy and Health. Leaman also agrees this idea including the addition of ‘carbon’ as a last step. (Poblete, 2013, p. 37) According to these identifications, one of the systems is the energy which has a growing impact in relation to the POE as . (Edwards, 2013, p. 69) (Figure 1) Because, energy is closely related to the view of major standpoints:

The UK is committed to deliver zero-carbon dwellings after 2016. (Burford, 2013, p. 02; Gill, et al., 2010, p. 491; Poblete, 2013, p. 18)
Environment of buildings contributes to 47 per cent CO2 emissions in the UK on the basis of ‘operational energy use’. (Stevenson, 2009, p. 01) Palmer and Cooper (2011), Economidou (2011) and Boardman (2007) agree that nearly 27 per cent of CO2 emissions in the UK are caused by housing. (Burford & Pearson, 2013, p. 221)
In twenty years from the date of 1990 to 2010, however, the population of the UK has enlarged 4 per cent and the domestic energy consumption has increased by 19 per cent. Furthermore, there is a great risk at increase consumption of energy in the same manner, as the households are noticeably using more energy-consuming equipment. For instance; lighting appliance and entertainment devices. (Vale & Vale, 2010, p. 583)
The UK Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) stated as the UK government declared that all UK homes should have smart meters by 2020, intends to see in 26 million properties 47 million meters by 2020. The reason of this statement that is highly believed that energy billing and metering would change the customer behaviour, which is mentioned in the Energy Review Report in 2006. (Poblete, 2013, p. 159)
Apart from many political and economic reasons around the energy issue among governments, there are two central reasons: Climate change related to the carbon emissions and the energy conservation, which has a crucial importance, especially in European countries since the energy security has been constrained by the supply and the type of energy source. (Poblete, 2013, p. 195; Murphy & Tuohy, 2013, p. 2390)

Accordingly, as a result of the above explanation, on the basis of capturing energy related data and diminishing methods in a variety of ways through POE will potentially establish a great assistance to the achievement of energy related issues one way or another.

In the aspect of building performance is to deliver a secure and comfortable environment without compromising occupants’ health as well as their productivity. (Deuble & Dear, 2014, p. 112)Hence, the second system is the health of occupants which has an intrinsic importance for POE under the context of with following indications: (Edwards, 2013, p. 69) (Figure 1)

People consume approximately 90 per cent of their lives in buildings. Hence, the building internal environmental performance is obliged to be designed and defend against the ‘infectious disease, allergies and asthma, and building-related health symptoms’. (Croome, 2013, p. 50)
Building related illness is a result of largely poor indoor environment. This is the concern of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1984, according to Murphy (2006), the Committee noted that over 30 per cent of new and existing buildings are ‘’’pathogens’’’, hence it leads to 10-30 per cent of their occupant discomfort. (Poblete, 2013, p. 01) And this issue ‘should not be underestimated’. (Halliday, 2008, p. 251) In addition, ‘sick building syndrome (SBS)’ is also specified in order to emphasize the health issues associated with buildings. (Croome, 2013, p. 50) For more recent perspective, the National House Building Council(NHBC) in 2012 states that, however, the passive housing development with its well-insulated and airtight feature that may cause an opposite health effect for the occupants because of overheating factor. (McLeoad, et al., 2013, p. 190)

Figure 1: Illustration of interpretation of POE towards major subject areas in the building (Edwards, 2013, p. 69; Leaman & Bordass, 2007, p. 663; Croome, 2013, p. 09; Poblete, 2013, pp. 17,33; Stevenson, 2009, p. 126)

The combination of energy and health system in the building will enable to operate as an ‘ecosystem supporting global issues (carbon reduction) and personal issues (health)’. (Edwards, 2013, p. 70) In addition to this, Edwards (2013) suggested that a POE can be taken and examined using a ‘triangulation formed’ which is shown above in Figure 1 including also associated with other references. Figure 1 is an illustration of POE how can be interpreted for current emerging major issues. But also, these major issues are closely connected and should affect to each other through a Building Management System (BMS) as shown in Figure 1. Therefore, BMSs provide data, which requires to be interpreted in order to enhance awareness with a useful understanding of the building. (Croome, 2013, p. 09) For instance; the types of POE has already been developed to identify emerging variables such as ventilation rates, lighting and indoor air quality (IAQ). (Stevenson, 2009, p. 124)

Therefore, this research attempts to investigate the best POE method for the “Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio” in Dundee, in consideration of highlighted major terms within the scope of study which is defined in the research aim and objectives section.

1.2 - Research Question

The main research question is: How to find the exemplary POE method to adopt to the “Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens?

However, there is solely one main question in this research to be investigated, the following subsequent questions and the issues are put forward in Problem Statement section in order to provide a holistic approach. (Figure 2)

1.3 - Problem Statement

Over the past forty years, there have been a significant number of methods developed towards POE in majorly understanding of the key questions as posed by Bordass and Leaman below:

How is this building working?
Is it intended?
How can it be improved?
How can future buildings be improved? (Stevenson, 2009, p. 124)

However, there is a great intention to have a particular POE method in order to be standardized against subjected evaluations in every building typologies according to Stevenson (2009, p. 128), there is not yet launched such POE, whereas it is hardly recommended. (Edwards, 2013, p. 69; Stevenson, 2009, p. 128; Bordass, 2006, p. 02) On the other hand, Bordass et al.(2001); Leaman, and Bordass (2001) note that in the 1990s established POE review of building and their engineering (PROBE) states for helping to build ‘a standardized POE method’ which can support benchmarking process in POE method. (Deuble & Dear, 2014, p. 116) However, the aim and the expectation from POE can be similar in terms of capturing data, it is suggested that the methodology of POE is highly needed to be varied in different building typologies such as offices, hospitals, schools and houses. (Edwards, 2013, p. 69; Stevenson, 2009, p. 125) Hence, essentially, the problem around identification of what method should be used as a guide in relation to the “Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’’ will be searched principally in the context of practice and theory. (Figure 2)

Another discussion in relation to the POE is real understanding of the behaviour and expectation of occupants against buildings without bias. (Deuble & Dear, 2014, p. 117)(Figure 2) The SCF (2007, p. 07) draws attention about the POE reviews that should ensure ‘an unbiased and consistent approach’. On the other hand, the structured questionnaires for observing user perceptions in their building in the UK indicates that only 55 per cent or in some extend are ‘non-biased’ on the basis of a response rate. (Oseland, 2007, p. 07)

With a focus on same subject, according to Bordass and Leaman (2007, p. 662), people are rather more moderate against buildings called as ‘green’, than to the conventional building typologies. Edwards (2013, p. 68) agrees that if the occupants are informed about the green technology, design and they are encouraged to use them easily, the failure in technical performance can be ignored in a certain level. But, does that make that building perform well or the user perception is just biased because of providing adequate user control over the building management system? In other words, Tweed (2009) explains that issue: As a number of surveys increasingly indicate that there is no direct correlation between advanced low-carbon architecture and reduction in energy consumption without inclusion of key concern which is occupant behaviour.

There is no doubt, technological development on the basis of emerging smart POEs, for instance; ‘the use of sensors, smart metering and sub-metering, building management systems (BMS) provides a rapid advancement. But, Edwards argues over complicated controls and extreme engineering approaches can cause a significant difficulty for monitoring. Therefore, understanding the performance of buildings becomes a great challenge. At this point, in Stevenson study Energy Saving Trust acknowledged that:

What is particularly important, however, is to decide when and how much detailed monitoring is actually necessary based on an initial diagnosis of whether the building is meeting performance standards or not.

Therefore, in particular, in a POE method should be preferred to adopt to the “Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens? This is also a leading question in order to develop the literature review accordingly. (Figure 2)

As can be seen above Figure 2, the highlighted questions are shown in simple illustration. The major questions are widened and divided into two parts as in theory and in practice. This will give an initial insight on the basis of the organisation of the literature review.

1.4 - Aim and Objectives

1.4.1- Aim

After observation of the main question and subsequent questions towards research topic, the aim and related objectives has to be set out in order to justify how the research question will be answered.

Therefore, the aim of the research is to investigate the best practice of the POE method in order to adopt to the “Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens.

1.4.2 - Objectives

Regarding to the aim of the research, the following objectives indicate basically the sequence of research development as well as the preferences to be examined in order to achieve the aim of this research.

To give an insight about understanding of the main reasons and principles for developing a POE in the building

To develop critical questions to demonstrate the research main subject area

To identify the research constraints that impact on research development

To conduct a thorough literature review to bring a broad understanding to deliver the most applicable POE method for the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’

To evaluate the current theoretical and applied POE strategies in low energy, zero carbon and passive houses in Scotland, in the UK and Europe respectively

To determine and investigate key projects as case study in order to learn their methods in relation to POE through a detailed, comprehensive approach

To design a questionnaire to be used for the occupants who visit the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’

To identify, design and illustrate the possible POE method that can be suggested for the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens

1.5- Research Outline

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Anchor 8

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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 - Brief Summary of Literature Review

After a clear drawing of research question and related research aim and following objectives, in order to define the scope of the literature review greater, Figure 4 is structured and shaped as a literature map which is a ‘visual summary of the research’. (Creswell, 2009, p. 34)This literature review assists to draw the limitation of the scope of the research and provides an insight about the selected approach. (Creswell, 2009, p. 23) Furthermore, ‘it provides a framework for establishing the importance the study as well as a benchmark for comparing the results with other findings.’ (Creswell, 2009, p. 25)

The literature map describes the major consideration areas in the research as follows:

Learning POE from Theory
Learning POE from Practice
Learning Features of Prototype Studio in Botanic Gardens in relation to POE

2.2 - Learning POE from Theory

In general, approaching to the learning POE through theoretical review will enhance the view of POE primarily in knowledge, diversity, policy and strategy around POE. (Figure 4) However, there are certain descriptions exist for POE, principally the direct and definite adoption of any specific definition towards POE application is avoided in theoretical review. (Blyth, et al., 2006, p. 03) This type of review is preferred because there are considerable differences among the buildings such as; their typologies, ‘climate contexts, cultural difference, and scale and organisational needs’ that require different techniques and/or strategies. (Stevenson, 2009, p. 128) At this point, the similar cases in theory for adoption POE method for ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens can be taken as a potential guide.

In order to understand the major principles behind POE, the of POE is examined through the written books especially in intelligent sustainable buildings and their performance. (Figure 4) The chosen books are important in order to provide a general insight about POE without giving detail information, which is not intended at the beginning stage of this research.

The enhancement of the aspect of POE is highly possible through investigation of the current particular studies. For instance, written reports and articles. These studies provide a progress towards POE in a variety of ways through evaluation of these sections in these sources especially:

Recommendations
Lesson learnt cases
Theoretical solutions towards to occurred problems in POE
The acknowledgement of some details of failure and/or achievement in operational and technical service in relation to POE

This information will create for this research, whether support the aforementioned topic in POE or demonstrate the different point of view, especially in the context of Scotland, the UK and Europe. (Figure 4)

There is another aspect of ‘Learning POE from the Theory’ that comprises the emerging policies, strategies, the establishments and similar organisations. (Figure 4) Without giving continuous importance to the advancement of POE and related studies at governmental, public and private level, POE is hardly possible to become well-known and applicable with broad acceptance, which also clarifies the level of advancement reached at POE for that region. As a result, referring to the SCF report Capital projects: post-occupancy evaluation guidance (2007, p. 04), ‘Guide to Post Occupancy Evaluation, was published by the University for AUDE in 2006. ‘This cooperate study has established the fundamental basis of the POE method in theory to be used in practice in the region. However, the Guide to Post Occupancy Evaluation was to develop for colleges and universities, the broad approach and comprehensive interpretations have enhanced the subjected area with the assistance of ‘professionals, groups and individuals’ that collaborated to be used in different building typologies. (Blyth, et al., 2006, p. 03) Furthermore, in practice, with the reference of SCF POE Guidance, a number of college and university buildings are being subjected to the POE. As the POE method described in SCF Guidance suggested that POE method can be applied in three consecutive stages: (Scottish Funding Council, 2014)

Operational Review (undertaken 3-6 months following handover)
Functional Performance Review (undertaken 12-18 months following handover)
Strategic Review (undertaken 3-5 years following handover)

This process also essentially explains the one of the major reasons of why the examination of POE is sought on the basis of theory and practice in this research. Because, there are valuable, mutual benefits and opportunities in order to find practical solutions towards POE method through rigorous, continuous and simultaneous studies at each dynamics. Therefore, a growing understanding will diminish the number of weakest points and/or fill the gaps on both sides in theory and in practice, which will incrementally provide development towards POE as well as contribute to this research development. As an example, Building Use Studies (BUS), known as BUS methodology was established and improved from 1985 to 2008. And, after 2008, BUS is adopted by Arup. Thus, this well-known company launched this service as a new branch called as ‘Arup Appraise’ in order to use the method in house, to provide long term contribution and advancement the service. (Leaman, 2010, p. 04; BUS methodology, 2014)

Accordingly, to identify the POE method in theory, Figure 5 is designed and originated mostly from the ‘Guide to Post Occupancy Evaluation.’ (Blyth, et al., 2006, pp. 06-07) Therefore, it presents the steps throughout the POE and basically explains the process of stages, including the following columns as: What, Issues to address, Why/how to do and the Explanations and/or Clarifications of the decided POE strategies in Appendix 1. But, there should be mentioned as noted at the beginning of ‘Learning POE from Theory’, the information provided in this Figure 5, can be varied substantially for different purposes from one POE method design to another one. In this regard, as explained in the ‘Problem Statement’, the standardized technique in POE is unlikely recommended for every type of buildings. ‘A balanced approach’ in order to fulfil the requirements of particular essentials and expectations of the project and stakeholder can be more practical. (Bordass, 2006, p. 02) Thus, in the case of this research area, the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens will take place the centre of this POE design as well as the structure of Figure 5 and the addition of Appendix 1.

2.3 - Learning POE from Practice

There is a particular criticism on learning POE from theory which Leaman, et al. (2010, p. 567) indicate that ‘academics’ approach not to identify POE as ‘’research’’ since its findings do not always draw to a development in ‘’new’’ understanding. The reason is that, when the project is undertaken at the site, a wide range of sources such as ‘client requirements, practice, techniques and technologies will be discussed by the project authorities. Consequently, this process largely triggers the improvement of ’feedbacks, lesson learned and quality-control’

systems for following strategies and construction projects . (Leaman, et al., 2010, p. 567) Bordass (2006, p. 01) agrees that there are different concerns are taken into account in practice and in theory. And, therefore, the ‘real world-approach’ is necessary to close the disconnection between ‘building projects and researchers’ in understanding POE. (Bordass, 2006, p. 01) In addition, if the UK government stimulates to the ‘initiatives that work on paper, but not in practice’ with the intention of delivering energy efficient and low carbon housing rapidly may benefit to the business sector rather than public concern. But most importantly, as the term ‘low-carbon’ however, emerging as needlessly overpriced, difficult to reach and it brings technical risks, which may work in theory, but it may arguably guarantee that it works well or demonstrates as worthwhile in practice. (Leaman, et al., 2010, p. 575) As a result, the key projects in which POE conducted have to be discussed in relation to the adoption of the POE method for the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’, which will also take a significant part of this research development.

As the growing attention towards POE emerged, especially within recent years, the number of POE methods in practice has dramatically increased as well. Based on the number of techniques in relation to POE, according to Leaman (2003), who referred to Bruhns, more than 150 POE techniques are accessible throughout the world. And from this total, 50 different techniques are used within the UK. (Riley , et al., n.d., p. 05) More recent study, by Technology Strategy Board (TSB) (2014) indicates that in total 95 different tools and methods are available in the UK and abroad. Some of them are largely recognized in many projects, such as SAP and BREEAM and some of them are less popular as being bespoke tools for an individual company. (Technology Strategy Board , 2014)

In this relation, the major established methodologies and tools being used in practice are summarised in . This illustration can be an important guide in terms of analysing the major existing methods how relevant and useful towards to the adoption of POE method for ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’

After observation about POE method across the market through , the most suitable existing method can be chosen PROBE and/or Soft Landings on the basis of the format and techniques they used and providing a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. However, at this point, there are some arguments can be highlighted. The POE method in the market hardly possible gives a full control to the users for direct intervention when necessary including building management system. At the same time, addressing a POE design, in consideration of meeting the objectives that noted for ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ in section 2.4 is essentially challenging and requires flexible and advance solutions. Therefore, however, present existing methods improved on their capabilities and services towards POE over the time, for the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ (with its reputation of being the ‘first entirely renewable‐powered ‘off‐grid’ building to be constructed in the UK), the acceptance of solely one existing method can be risky and easily fail to fulfil the demonstrated objectives and expectations. (Burford, 2013, p. 02)Another aspect of view, simply, setting up systems, operating and monitoring in a standard way of POE may cause some major difficulties, conflicts and misleading data observation during the POE process against the Studio which is entirely surrounded with cutting edge technologies.

In addition to this, the described case studies under the title of ‘Learning POE from Practice’ in Figure 4 will be discussed in Section 3.2- Case Study.

2.4 - Learning Features of Prototype Studio in Botanic Gardens in relation to POE

The energy autonomous prototype structure is a ‘50m2 Passivhaus standard, off-grid demonstrator developed and built by the University of Dundee’s Macro Micro research unit, a Department of Architecture Masters Unit. The project is unique in that it is completely student led and built.’ (macromicro studio, n.d.)

The range of features in this Prototype structure is aimed to work efficiently, effectively as well as in coordination. And, the major features that are designed at the prototype structure as follows: (macromicro studio, 2013a)

Rainwater Harvesting
Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR)
4.8 kWp Photovoltaic Array
LED Lighting
Fabric Temperature Sensors
ZIP Instantaneous Heaters
‘Daylight harvesting’
Weather station
Foamed concrete slab sensors
Redwell Infrared Panel
Battery Store

According to the mentioned features above, a number of objectives are established in relation to the designed POE: (Burford, 2013, pp. 05-06)

Set up an ‘intelligent building management system’ (IBMS) in order to control energy flows in terms of direct consumption, storing and exporting.
Set up a ‘’developing smart bottom-up systems’’ that provides ‘sensor technologies’ in relation to the management of the indoor air temperature. At the same time, the applied technology should capture the data for understanding the ‘spatial aspect of user behaviour… (e.g. opening windows) and technical systems (e.g. hot water use, ventilation)’ with their relationship.
Set up an ‘’information and communication technology (ICT)’ which will allow to generate data that covers understanding of operation of renewable energy technologies, the interaction between energy and occupants, ‘building fabric performance and internal environmental quality’. In addition, the forecast weather data and on-site data will be monitored and integrated.

In relation to the objectives, further expectations in design and technology from a POE method in this particular structure can be put forward as below: (macromicro studio, 2013a)

The ‘building management and control system (BMCS)’ is expected to deliver the data associated with energy monitoring, control and distribution of energy between building use, battery and export.
Monitoring each ‘socket’ in the building in order to understand energy consumption of the appliance as well as occupant preference.
Design a clear ‘touch screen’ that will show the occupants how much energy they conserve and/or consume based on their behaviour. And, a further detail data will be provided online for following study and public knowledge.
Analysis for further studies on how limited energy supply affects the occupant behaviour within short term with the support of the University of Dundee Computing Department

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

3.1-Description of Methodology

The development of methodology, including research process in order to meet the research aim and its objectives is designed in three phases as below Figure 5. Thus, through Figure 5, a simple and clear understanding of the research process is intended.

3.2-Case Study

Generally, method of case study is an ideal strategy when ‘“how” or “why’’’ questions are being asked and generate useful data while the research area is a wide open subject that ‘the investigator has little control over events’. (Yin, 2003, p. 01) This is essentially relevant for this research purpose. Because, concentrating on key projects in detail will principally be more effective and suitable to address the aim of the research rather than providing a lot of information, but in generic. The design of case study in this research can be explained under these questions:

What?

The major consideration in each case study can be defined in three steps:

Internal environmental monitoring, including energy evaluation (through a range of illustrations from completed previous POE methods)
Occupant behaviour and interaction with BMCS (a range of methods such as questionnaire, unstructured interview, site visit where possible and/or disseminated documents)
Intelligent control system (through disseminated documents and unstructured interview)

Why?

Apart from the suitability of case study in this research, some of the researchers recommend case study in relation to POE research as well. As an example, Leaman, et al. (2010, p. 567) state that: ‘There is nothing better than a vivid case study to communicate lessons learned and underwrite decision-making.’ Poblete (2013, p. 194) agrees as follows:

During the last five years, many new sustainable homes have been produced in the UK and these homes are expected to comply with the standards contained within the three upper levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes, so it seemed very logical to study and research this new generation of homes and learn from the findings, given the many changes that are occurring in this area at a very fast pace.

How?

In this research, case study is aimed at observation of a variety of sources in order to gain comprehensive insight. For this reason, observation of qualitative and quantitative data for designing a case study is thought. (Yin, 2003, p. 93) And three principles of data collection are taken as follows:

Using Multiple Source of Evidence: As one of the most significant advantages of the case study is to advocate using numerous related sources of indication. Through the contribution of ‘multiple sources of evidence’, the further results or discussion will likely be more reliable and accurate. (Yin, 2003, p. 97)
Creating a Case Study Database: The organization and documentation of data in order (Yin, 2003, p. 101)
Maintain a Chain of Evidence: ‘Clear Cross-referencing’ and ‘resulting evidence’ including indication of date of reference (Yin, 2003, p. 105)

Another point of view, the method of ‘multiple case-design’ is chosen in order to address ‘the nature of the research question’ and ‘the role of the confirming the study’s outcomes’ better. (Groat, 2013, p. 431)Therefore, the case studies are classified as simple, semi- sophisticated and sophisticated based on their POE context. According to this classification, the key projects are identified as a case study. Plummerswood and Tigh-Na-Cladach represent simple POE. Sigma house represents semi-sophisticated POE. And Monte Rosa Hut represents sophisticated POE. Hence, the findings and results will be discussed and the decisions will be put forward for the best POE practice in the ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’ in Dundee Botanic Gardens in accordance with the classification of POE in simple, semi- sophisticated or sophisticated.

3.3-Research Limitation

However, the intention was to examine the up-to-date established POE across the key case study projects, due to the ongoing, long term studies, it is difficult to obtain a complete report in every case study. This reflects to the date of observed data that changes from one case study to another one. But, nevertheless, the recent studies towards POE in case studies broadly are obtained and used in this research.

The evaluation of POE in case studies is limited to the information provided by the disseminated reports and articles. This affects the format of the illustrations and the subjected importance of topic changes from one case study to another. The most detailed study can only be achieved by conducting the POE study individually. But, in that case, in consideration of three month research study, it is hardly possible to establish a complete POE in a relatively short period of time.

The difficulty of having the updated published report of Monte Rosa Hut related to the POE in English version was another limitation of this research. However, not to avoid the important explanations, the information in this report is used through using several translation services on the internet. Moreover, this source is supported by other similar studies.

CHAPTER 4: CASE STUDY

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4.1- CASE STUDY - SIMPLE POE APPLICATION: PLUMMERSWOOD PRIVATE HOUSING, CARDRONA, SCOTLAND

4.1.1 - General Information and Sustainability Features

4.1.2 – Floor Plans

4.1.3 - Internal environmental monitoring, including energy evaluation

Gaia Research and Arup Scotland have involved in a rigorous monitoring scheme under POE method. During the monitoring process, the occupants became dynamically aware of the energy conservation and contributed to the POE. Furthermore, the onerous study towards POE has lighten the design errors, and enabled to fix them. On the other hand, the frustration of POE in Plummerswood house was the process was highly ‘prescriptive’. Hence, it was time-consuming more than necessary. (Halliday, 2014) As a result, there were a number of internal variables monitored and substantial data observed. To see the general view of the monitoring strategy plan, Appendix 4 can be checked. (Gaia Research & Arup Scotland, 2013, p. 26)

Monitoring Temperature, Humidity, CO2:

The monitoring tools were instrumented to the ground floor and first floor as shown in Figure 10. The kitchen (K) with dining room (DR), living room (LR), bathroom (BTH) and bedroom (B1) were subjected to the monitoring in terms of temperature and humidity (RH). The living room (LR) and bedroom (B1) were also monitored on the basis of CO2 levels. Accordingly, the Eltek wireless monitoring tools were chosen and placed in those locations. (Figure 11)

From the data captured between mid-November and December 2012, the graph was created. (Figure 12) The outcomes of this graph highlight essentially how well the internal environmental performance. Thus, the relative humidity as the referred blue line was in the range 40 to 55% along the monitoring period. The indoor temperature, which is the red coloured line, maintained steady temperature approximately between 20oc and 15oC, whereas the outdoor temperature had a great number of peaks during the analysis. Overall, these results have considered as “very stable internal environment”

Humidity indoor

Temperature indoor

Temperature outdoor

Humidity outdoor

The significant relationship between MVHR and CO2 was experienced during the monitoring. The test was to leave the bedroom (B1) (Chan 20) one night without MVHR operation and opening window. As a result, the comparison of CO2 level of B1 with the level of living room (LR) (Chan 17) was very significant. (Figure 13)

MVHR operation and window opening:

The MVHR system can be operated by occupants in four levels of speed of ventilation: reduced, normal, increased and boost. (Figure 14) There is one more option as ‘Trickle’ when the house is not occupied. (Paul Heat Recovery Scotland, 2011, p. 02) During the summer and even spring, according to the occupant’s view, because of effective control of natural ventilation through using remote and manual windows, there would not be necessary to operate MVHR system. In the case of, poor air quality inside the home, the adjustment of boost level allows purging the air for 15 minutes after ‘pressing the boost switch’. (Nimmo, 2014; Paul Heat Recovery Scotland, 2011, p. 02)

Thermal imaging:

Thermal imaging was conducted in several external faces of the building in order to identify the leakage if there is any. (Figure 15)

Energy Performance:

The process of monitoring has supported to use energy effectively. Hence, it is recorded that energy performance has improved by 30 per cent. The measured energy performance in 2012 was created according to the sub-metered data. (Figure 16) From summer time to winter time, the energy consumption raised dramatically. As can be seen in the Figure 16, MVHR was operated mostly in colder weather condition. From the point of domestic hot water element, it was operated throughout the year with a drop in summer time and growth in winter time. (Gaia Research & Arup Scotland, 2013, p. 20)

4.1.4 - Occupant behaviour and interaction with BMCS

A questionnaire is designed on the subject of obtaining information on basically:

Understanding the user opinion about the building performance in relation to the indoor air quality in the summer and in the winter, temperature, lighting and noise.
Understanding the level of user control on building performance
Understanding the monitoring tools used during POE how adoptable.

Accordingly, thanks to the Plummerswood occupants, the questionnaire is completed. And, the detail of completed questionnaire can be seen in Appendix 5. As a result of this questionnaire, the building performance was quite successful.

Especially, the occupant perceived that the simple, robust and quick responded control of MVHR was satisfactory. In contrast, artificial lighting switch control was complicated more than necessary. (Figure 17) For example, as a solution of many switch buttons, occupant noted which switch what is intended for. (Nimmo, 2014)

In addition, the occupant had been following a diary which included all details about operation of electric consumption units in terms of when and how long they used.(Appendix 6) As a result, the comparison of captured data and user diary was expected to show same consumption measurement. The detail of the breakdown of electricity consumption nearly throughout 2013 and the pie chart of electricity where it goes is shown in Appendix 7 which are prepared by the occupant.

4.1.5 - Intelligent control system

The remote control of windows located in the hall provides relatively good air infiltration without necessity of highly sophisticated control system. (Figure 18)

Automatic control of shading and reduce glazing system is placed in the living room. To stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter through this application of system, solar gain can be managed effectively throughout the year. (Figure 19)

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4.2- CASE STUDY - SIMPLE POE APPLICATION: TIGH-NA-CLADACH, DUNOON, SCOTLAND

4.2.1 - General Information and Sustainability Features

Figure 20: The Tigh-Na-Cladach Project View and Sustainable Features

4.2.2 – Floor Plans

The Dunoon passive house monitoring method consists of energy utilization, internal and external condition in terms of temperature, humidity, CO2 level indoor and temperature and solar radiation outdoor and solar hot water performance. POE is conducted in a range of method including inspection, observation, monitoring and questionnaire. (Tuohy, et al., 2011, p. 02; Tuohy, et al., 2012, p. 02) The monitoring was conducted through the application of Eltek wireless monitoring tools, in a similar way to the monitoring of Plummerswood project. The location and the measurables are described in Figure 22. Additionally, a pyranometer to capture solar radiation and external temperature sensor for outdoor temperature were placed. (Murphy & Tuohy, 2013, pp. 2392-2393)

The illustration of connection of monitoring tools to each other, and how data transferred to the University of Strathclyde Glasgow is shown in Figure 23.

Temperature, humidity and CO2

According to the results of captured data from 26.03.11 and 01.04.11, it was discovered that, Dunoon Passive house indoor temperature was lower than expected as below 20oC. In contrast, relative humidity was at the range of 50 and 60 and the CO2 concentration was between 500 and 800 ppm. This was satisfactory and at the safe zone. In Figure 24, the comparison was made in three house type as the Passive House coloured blue, code level 4 House coloured green and the House constructed from 1950s coloured orange. After inspections, the reasons for the low temperature in the Passive House were realized MVHR and heat pump systems. The major problems with MVHR were:

Central location of MVHR
No transfer openings for air circulation from room to room
Insulation problems of ducts

In the view of heat pump systems, it was in contradiction with the projected Passive House application. (Tuohy, et al., 2012, pp. 03-05)

Energy performance:

Figure 25: Monitoring energy consumption in Dunoon Passive House (Deveci & Musau, 2014)

As shown in Figure 25, the energy consumers in the home were metered and monitored. This figure shows 5 month investigation of total energy consumption regarding to the range of energy consumers in the home between 20.12.12 and 20.05.13. It was identified that towel rail in WC (700 kWh), downstairs sockets (500-600 kWh) and water heater (500-600 kWh) were the major energy consumers in the home during the monitoring

The above Figure 25 was also converted to another illustration as below Figure 26. The daily usage of energy was collected cumulatively. And this was helpful to see if there was any change in occupant patterns of energy utilization. For instance, towel rail, WC was gradually increased throughout the monitoring, which meant that there was no change in occupant behaviour on this particular energy consumption pattern during 5 months period.

4.2.4 - Occupant behaviour and interaction with BMCS

The low zero carbon technologies (LZCT) were not explained user friendly for occupants’ understanding. Therefore, the predicted performance of LZCT was not achieved in practice. Similarly, occupants acknowledged that they were not informed whom they should contact when a problem occurred in LZCT technologies. When they tended to check the system, they came across a ’80 page manufactures’ manual’, which was noted confusing.

4.2.5 - Intelligent control system

As Dunoon Passive Houses are introduced as an affordable housing scheme in the UK, the intelligent building control system is essentially not sophisticated. Even, in LZCT implementations, there were some issues in relation either the design of these technologies how relevant for this particular Passive House project or the user control and/or understanding how effective.

4.3- CASE STUDY – SEMI SOPHISTICATED POE APPLICATION: SIGMA HOUSE, WATFORD, ENGLAND

4.3.1 - General Information and Sustainability Features

Figure 27: The Sigma Home Project View and Sustainable Features

4.4.2 – Floor Plans

4.3.3 - Internal environmental monitoring, including energy evaluation

According to the research plan, four different families were occupied in the Sigma home over different seasons of a year. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 553; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 05) And those families lived in the Sigma Home as normal as they do usual routines on a daily basis. However, the building was subject to several qualitative and quantitative methods in relation to the POE. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, pp. 553-561; Steward Milne Group, 2009, pp. 05-12; Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, pp. 01-21)

The qualitative methods: Questionnaire, interviews, walk through and video recording
The quantitative methods: Co-heating test, thermal imaging, internal air quality (temperature, humidity, CO2, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)), energy performance, window/door opening, water consumption, micro renewable energy technology and acoustic performance

The evaluation of these methods was also described as the main objectives of this POE research in the Sigma House (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 05)

Co-heating test:

This test assists to establish the actual fabric heat loss co-efficient. The process comprises of heating the home with all openings sealed in a certain temperature against a changing outdoor temperature. During the test, the amount of energy used to conserve that certain temperature level was measured and converted to the heat lost that caused by fabric. (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 03; Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 553)

Initially, the method is recommended to be applied when the outdoor temperature is lower than inside the building temperature in order not to be affected by external temperature. Therefore, the test was conducted in winter condition with the shown tools in Figure 29. The results can be seen as below Figure 30 and Figure 31.

The adequate level of temperature, which was adjusted at 27oC was maintained overall during the test, however the energy used as 144 W/K was almost 50 per cent greater than the estimated heat loss by basic Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) prediction. (98 W/K) (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 03; Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 553; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06)

Thermal Imaging:

The utilization of thermal imaging assists to clearly identify the air leakage around the junctions and the weak points where causes heat loss. (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 06) The image highlights the air leakage around the door with blue colour that refers the lower temperature. (Figure 32)

Similarly, the air leakage from the window can be seen at the right imagine. (Figure 33) At this point, Stevenson & Rijal (2010, p. 553) point out that thermal imaging with a combination of ‘air pressurizing’ and ‘depressurizing tests’ can be more practical in consideration of the difficulties to provide the required conditions for co-heating test.

Internal Air Quality (IAQ) Monitoring:

The wireless monitoring system is established, including recording ‘55 channels’ with 1 minute interval. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 05) However, during monitoring stage, some of the installed wireless temperature and humidity sensors were failed and renewed. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 558) The building was instrumented wireless including non-wireless data loggers to the four key locations as living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and corridor. In addition to this, to capture the external data that affects to the building in terms of temperature and humidity levels are placed outside during the four season test period. The interval for capturing data was taken as one minute. Afterwards, these captured data were compared with the thermal comfort survey, which was completed by users. (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 04)

The indoor relative humidity was measured in most of the rooms, both in occupied and unoccupied hours, and was observed between 40 and 60 per cent, which is acceptable for healthy living conditions. The greatest humidity was captured in the shower room as 53 per cent in comparison with other rooms. (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 16; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 08)

Another monitoring is that, the CO2 levels of indoor air were captured. And as a result of measurement, the levels were received with an average 500 part per million (ppm). (Stevenson, 2009, p. 15)

Window/door opening:

Twenty four external windows and four doors were subjected to the monitoring to understand how often and which of external openings were used. The wireless sensor was placed as shown Figure 34. The data were collected on one minute basis in a binary data. (0=closed, 1= open) (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 20) The placement of sensors to the external openings at each floor is shown in Appendix 8. The only W20 (window 20) at roof can be controlled manually and automatically. The other openings are opened manually.

The result of this experiment indicated in particular, less than five windows were used out of twenty five openings. And the reason was to provide adequate ventilation over the building. Therefore, the strategy towards ‘cross ventilation and positioning’ of openable windows at key locations can reduce energy consumption while increasing indoor comfort level. (Rijal & Stevenson, 2010, p. 04; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 08)

Energy performance and water use:

The energy and water utilization is metered during monitoring. According to the energy consumption from the grid was 140 kWh/m2/year. The Figure 35 shows the detail consumption in terms of gas and electricity delivery from grid on a period basis. And, the primary energy consumption 229 kWh/m2/year was revealed. In relation to this, since, the European PassivHaus standard is 120 kWh/m2/year, the revealed energy performance was significantly poor. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06)

On the basis of water consumption, it was obtained lower than Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) standard 80 litres per person per day. The Figure 36 indicates the amount of water consumed during the monitoring period. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556; Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06) The CSH is adjusted for four people as the family consists of 4 people.

The advanced appliances (washing machine and dishwashers) were the key factor in succeeding low water consumption in Sigma Home. However, it was criticised by occupants because of the low water washing machine and flush toilets, Steward Milne Group (2009, p. 06) did not compromise from their principle on this subject.

Micro renewable energy technology performance:

The adopted renewables solar thermal, micro wind and photovoltaics were analysed in terms of feasibility and contribution to the energy. Over the monitoring period, micro wind has generated low electricity due to the placement to a city centre and low height location. Moreover, one of the turbines fell down from the roof. Another point of view, the maintenance, noise and certification of wind turbine were all the major pitfalls. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 07)

The combination of solar thermal with heat storage is ideal. Otherwise, due to the fluctuation of generating energy, the usage of energy may not be fulfilled effectively or vice versa. The reliable market for long term guarantee the service, whereas, overheating of solar thermal was one of the main problems. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06; Stevenson, 2009, p. 14)

Photovoltaics (PV) generated around 27 kWh/m2/year electricity, which is equal nearly more than 50 per cent of electricity consumption. However, the placement of PV to one of the face of the building vertically was not effective due to the shadowed by another construction next door. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06; Stevenson, 2009, p. 14) Similarly, the findings toward issues of renewable energy technologies in the UK pointed out a certain expertise gap. For example, about 51 per cent renewable installers have not enough knowledge of ‘fitting the meters’. (McWeeney, 2014, p. 17)

Acoustic performance:

The high level of insulation affected positively against the acoustic performance. In relation to the understanding of the noise performance of the building, the appliances in the kitchen, the casual noises from the windows and MVHR unit were recorded. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 06)

4.3.4 - Occupant behaviour and interaction with BMCS

To analyse the occupant behaviour, several methods were applied to the occupants in the Sigma Home. In general the quantitative data observation was triangulated through interaction with occupants. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556) Therefore, the applied methods can be put forward as follows:

Log sheets: This was for following family activities in the home. It was filled every day and compared with other data gathered. This process highlighted that how occupants changed their patterns and/or behaviour during the monitoring (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 558)
45 minute semi-structured interview: It was arranged at the end of the occupancy of family in the home. The questions were majorly about the qualitative factors associated with home design quality, comfort and control and user response/perception. The great advantage of this method was to help to understand behind window/door opening, energy and water consumption. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556)
45 minute walk-through: The interviewer visited the home. The occupants showed the interviewer the good and bad points of the home features while walking around the home. And this was recorded digitally. This method helps especially to reveal the details that missed in the interview. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556)
Video recording: The recording took an hour for each occupancy period in order to keep the data selective. The hidden issues can be revealed by video recording. But, the privacy of occupants should not be compromised for the video recording method. As a great example from experience of video recording, the one of the occupants was closing opaque windows during the day. As a result, the solar gain significantly reduced and caused a gap between predicted and actual energy conservation. And, the reason of closing the opaque window not to glare, but the privacy. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 559)

The thermal comfort survey was conducted in order to understand the users’ perception of indoor comfort against changes indoor and outdoor temperature as well as humidity levels. (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 556) For this evaluation, the questionnaire was conducted as shown in Appendix 9.

The heating, lighting and ventilation operation were the key problems that occupants found complicated. (Steward Milne Group, 2009, p. 09; Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 558) For example, the switches of light from Sigma Home can be seen at right Figure 37. Therefore, those features were not used as designed.

4.3.5 - Intelligent control system

As a prototype version, Ewgeco tool is adopted towards the Sigma III concept. As shown in the Figure 38, it is mounted to the wall. The function of this tool ‘monitors and displays the energy usage for electricity, water and gas’. Consequently, it is expected to impact on occupant behaviours towards energy saving. (Steward Milne Group, n.d.)

According to the Steward Milne Group (2009, p. 07) observation, to control renewable energy effectively, a storage space was necessary and the maintenance essentials possessed them to consider ‘’greening the grid’’ rather than an individual energy generation for new homes.

4.4- CASE STUDY - SOPHISTICATED POE APPLICATION: MONTE ROSA HUT, ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND

4.4.1 - General Information and Sustainability Features

4.4.2 – Floor Plans

4.4.3 - Internal environmental monitoring, including energy evaluation

The Monte Rosa Hut is designed with the technology which delivers highly durable and secure singular mechanisms that if are operated together, the system will result efficiently. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 172) Prof. Andrea Deplazes defines this as “Things work together. It is impossible to change anything about the building without calling other components into question. It constitutes a balanced whole.” (Vectorworks, 2011, p. 07) Thus, the purpose is to develop methods and tools in order to manage the composite fabric system in an optimised way with the assistance of advanced automated services and devices. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 175; Fux, et al., 2012, p. 05) Therefore, significant energy conservation can be achieved. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 05)

In relation to the The Monte Rosa Hut sophisticated building management system, the structure is instrumented with monitoring system recording all necessary information. Principally, the interval of receiving data from installed monitoring meters and sensors is adjusted not less than 15 minutes. (Fux, 2013, p. 35; Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812) Furthermore, all required sensors and monitoring systems are planned by the Siemens Switzerland AG before the construction stage of the Monte Rosa Hut. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 08) For instance, the type of sensors and meters used can be seen in Figure 41. (Fux, 2013, p. 109)

The temperature degree is designed, during the summer time when the Hut is available for visitors coming; the system sets minimum air temperature 15oC for the restaurant and 10oC for the sleeping areas. At the same time, the structure is heated to a temperature minimum 5oC during the winter not to leave the building and its components in freezing condition. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 173) At this point, Dr. Michael Benz (2014) explains that the summer period goal in terms of temperature can be achievable by passive house techniques which are solar gains and internal heat gains instead of any heating. In the case of the winter period, Dr. Michael Benz (2014) adds that Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is operated several hours, however the temperature drops lower 5oC in the beginning of January after three months without visitors and no heating operation.

Indoor Temperature:

The building is instrumented with a room temperature sensor in the restaurant and some of them are placed in the technical rooms. The duct temperature sensors are placed behind the exhaust ventilation duct ‘in two reference rooms on each of the upper floors.’ In addition, two more sensors are installed back to the building combined photovoltaics (PV) façade in order to measure and analyse the temperature and impact on PV efficiency. (Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812; Benz, 2014) The aim of the placement of sensors behind ducts is that to understand the demonstrative room temperature data even when the ventilation is out of operation. (Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812) Therefore, in Figure 42 a type of illustration of the relation between temperature and air supply with the real temperature and simulated temperature measurement can be seen. The ventilation was shut down from the date of 14.02.11 to 28.02.11. And the results were shown in Figure 42. The temperature varied between 11oC and below 19oC during nearly one month. However, a number of sharp fluctuations have occurred during the test period, the graph indicates that the significant impact of ventilation operation against to the temperature level and air flow. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 19)

Weather station, monitoring and forecasting:

The weather station ‘Monte Rosa-Plattje’, which is constructed next to the Hut provides the weather condition data in terms of ‘ambient temperature, wind speed and direction, global horizontal and diffuse horizontal solar radiation’ within every 10 minutes during the year. (Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812; Fux, 2013, p. 15) Moreover, the weather condition is followed through weather station MeteoSwiss[1] every ten minutes. And weather forecasting information is taken through COSMO-2[2], eight times a day; COSMO-7[3] three times and one time from COSMO-LEPS[4]. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 12) In this relation, the measured ambient temperature including minimum and maximum values from the site throughout the year 2011 can be seen in Figure 43. (Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812)

[1] The national weather service of Switzerland (http://www.meteoswiss.admin.ch/web/en.html)

[2] A high-precision numerical weather prediction system operated by MeteoSwiss (http://www.meteoschweiz.admin.ch/web/en/weather/models/cosmo.html)

[3] A high-precision numerical weather prediction system operated by MeteoSwiss (http://www.meteoschweiz.admin.ch/web/en/weather/models/cosmo.html)

[4] Limited Area Ensemble Prediciton System developed within COSMO (http://www.cosmo-model.org/content/tasks/operational/leps/)

As the substantial data observed for weather forecasts, the guest booking arrangement is also checked by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) booking system. The Figure 44 indicates that the all parameters: Measurement data from the weather station, building related measurement data from the automation system and the number of visitor information from the SAC booking system are collected in the ETH Zurich University to be optimised and work all the systems properly.

Energy:

The Monte Rosa Hut energy system principally consists of major units as below: (Gwerder, 2011, p. 09)

Energy generation: PV system, thermal solar collector and CHP plant
Energy storage: Battery and thermal heat stores
Energy consumption: Heating, ventilation, hot water, electric devices, wastewater treatment

In addition, the whole combined process can be seen in Figure 45 which not only visualise the whole system, but also, emphasize that all the system is closely connected to each other. Another important point is monitoring, measurement and controlling system. In order to ‘monitor all energy flows’, sensors are placed several locations and over 150 data points are recorded through the building automation system. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 12) In this relation, ETH Zurich designed two types of visualization of energy flow. One method was internet visualization. Based on this method, current energy flows and weather events can be monitored and simplified. The related screenshots are shown in Figure 46 and Figure 47. However, a touch-sensitive screen was installed in 2010 to show the building performance, due to the little interest of visitors and large consumption of energy, it was uninstalled. The second method was the building automation system Desigo[1] developed by Siemens is employed. And, this system essentially assists to analyse the captured data and optimize the operation of the Hut. Figure 48 shows one of the screenshot from this system. (Fux, et al., 2012, pp. 14-15)

[1] Siemens AG. Building automation and control system: http://www.hqs.sbt.siemens.com/gip/general/dlc/data/assets/hq/Desigo-building-automation---flexible-and-energy-efficient_A6V10227660_hq-en.pdf , last accessed August 15, 2014

There is another significant aspect of energy flow that the operation of the appliances in the Hut. Principally, it is vital to use energy as low as possible and also it should enable minimum operating times. For this reason, a ‘load-shedding programme’ provides to shut down the unnecessary used appliances which are open long period of time. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 173) On the other hand, the used appliances should be reliable with delivering minimum maintenance cost. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 174)

Figure 48: Screenshot of the detailed visualization in Desigo Insight. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 15)

In below Figure 49, there can be seen the distribution of energy consumption between 01.08.11 and 10.08.11. According to this illustration of bar chart, the major contributor to the consumption of energy is Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP). Secondly, the appliances and small equipment largely impacted on the energy consumption after WWTP.

The detailed analysis of the thermal energy flows is shown in Figure 50. Therefore, on the basis of these tested days, CHP operation is a fundamental source to deliver the required energy. With the help of analysis, including Figure 49 and 50, it is understood that in the operation year 2010-2011, the energy self-sufficiency goal 90 per cent was not achieved. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 16; Mahler, 2011, p. 28)

Humidity, CO2 and noise level monitoring:

According to the information provided by Dr. Michael Benz (2014) currently, humidity is not monitored in the Monte Rosa Hut. But, the ventilation system is designed for preserving dry indoor air quality inside the Hut. For instance, as a requirement, the timber structure, moisture level will be kept between 12 and 13.5 per cent atro. (Absolutely dry) (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 171)

The placement of CO2 sensors is planned in a similar way of temperature sensor instrumentation, as these sensors are installed near to the exhaust ducts in the restaurant and sleeping rooms. (Benz, 2014)

The noise level is achieved at minimum 45 decibels between rooms with the help of ‘insulated light weight construction’ and the ‘air-borne noise insulation’. For this purpose, within the budget without extra expenditure, the sound insulation had to be adjusted. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 171)

4.4.4 - Occupant behaviour and interaction with BMCS

The Monte Rosa Hut is open in a year from March to September up to 120 visitors per day. (Fux, 2013, p. 09; Fux, et al., 2014, p. 812) All visitors before they stay a night in the building, they need to arrange their staying time, whether online through the website of SAC or ‘calling the lodge keeper’. And, the number of visitors is updated on a daily basis by the lodge keeper. (Fux, 2013, p. 15) Therefore, a guest reservation system is developed. This sort of forecasting number of visitors with the combination of weather forecasting enables to the management of energy more precise. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 174)

During the stay in the Monte Rosa Hut, visitors can change the indoor air quality through opening windows and/or doors if they want to. In the case of visitors feel cold inside the building, Dr Michael Benz (2014) states that if the additional heat is required, there is always extra heat available to be supplied. But also, the temperature is generally all the time above 18oC in the Monte Rosa Hut. On the other hand, since the building works completely automatically, excessive usage of energy is avoided in the building in order to save the energy. (Benz, 2014)

4.4.5 - Intelligent control system

Internet connection

Initially, continuous internet connection is required to reach the measurement data and monitoring of the building. For this aim, at first, satellite connection is placed. But, in the long term, it is realized that the consistency is little achieved by this method. Swisscom[1] indicated an alternative solution that replacing the satellite with UMTS[2] (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 17)

Simulation technology

The utilization of simulation at the beginning of the project brought a variety of advantages. For instance, the decisions towards energy generation units’ size and management, ideal glass for windows and optimisation of

[1] Is a major telecommunications provider in Switzerland, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swisscom

[2] Is a so-called "third-generation (3G),"broadband , packet -based transmission of data. http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/Universal-Mobile-Telecommunications-System-UMTS

ventilated air were the number of analyses by simulation. And, the simulations almost worked precisely against planners’ challenging targets. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 174)

During this planning phase, a building model for the evaluation of the thermal comfort with over 50 zones was created by IDA ICE[8] 3.0. Afterwards, in order to investigate more complex simulation analysis version of IDA ICE 4.2 was adopted. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 18; Sidler, et al., 2012, p. 163)For instance, the Figure 51, at the right side, was created in IDE 4.22 as a first step of the building modelling. And, the loads such as appliances, lighting and people were not taken into calculation to be able to compare the simulation with non-occupancy period. In the second step, internal loads were included into the simulation. And, in the third step, the energy generation units were gradually supplemented.

Accordingly, in the winter between 10.02.11 and 10.03.11, the comparison of simulations was tested in terms of non-occupancy period without internal load and measured values. As a result, same conditions were set up. Therefore, for each zone of the building was evaluated in terms of ambient temperature, surface temperature (Figure 52), flow rates and heat fluxes. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 19; Sidler, et al., 2012, p. 163) And, at the present, for simulation indoor air climate and energy the ETH Zurich University uses their ‘own code programmed in Matlab’ system. (Benz, 2014)

[8] IDA Indoor Climate and Energy (IDA ICE) is a whole-year detailed and dynamic multi-zone simulation application for study of thermal indoor climate as well as the energy consumption of the entire building. (http://www.equa-solutions.co.uk/en/software/idaice)

Building Automation

The Monte Rosa Hut has potential to deliver a fully self-sufficient operation. However, the adopted renewable energy technology, efficiency highly relies on weather. Weather also impacts on building energy utilization. But, the building has an active role in these circumstances. The integration and measurement of foreseeable values will optimize the energy consumption and user comfort. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 175) As an example, in the Monte Rosa Hut, when the battery with the capacity of 255 kWh at 50 per cent is discharged, the CHP unit is activated until the battery is recharged to 70 per cent. (Fux, et al., 2012, p. 21) As a result, the decisions towards to tackle more complicated problems, finding mathematical optimisation systems are a must, which will lead to establish organised methodologies and finally these methodologies will be transferred to the relevant software tools to deal with solid issues. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 175) From the current view, ‘Desigo Insight’ developed by Siemens is used for building automation system. (Benz, 2014)

Model-based predictive control (MPC) in the building

The one of the differences between building automation and MPC is that MPC takes into account data of weather and number of visitors. (ETH Zurich (ed), 2010, p. 175) Forecast in building automation is important for the advantages of energy and energy cost savings, good indoor air quality, decrease peak electricity demand. For these reasons, integrated building systems for optimal energy and resources management by Siemens was operated between June 2008 and December 2012. And the expected energy, discomfort cost level for MPC is shown in the Figure 53. (Gwerder, 2011, pp. 05, 07)

There is also a great link between the whole building electric power capacity and forecasting. The accuracy of forecasting is relatively higher in a larger building which has a higher energy power capacity. Because, in small electric supplied projects, the behaviour of individual occupant’s impact on the peaks of the electric load affect a large percentage of total energy supply, which reflects to the forecasting in reverse. This was the observation achieved through the performed forecasting algorithm test in the Monte Rosa Hut. (Fux, 2013, pp. 65, 84)

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CHAPTER 5: POE SYSTEM DESIGN FOR STUDIO IN BOTANIC GARDENS IN DUNDEE

5.1- Adopting the Proposed System to the Prototype Studio

Intelligent building management system:

MVHR and User Control:

As a principle, the optimum thermal comfort with minimum consumption of energy throughout the year is desired for ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’. For this reason, initially, if the design of levels of MVHR clearly defined, it will provide a benchmark for POE. And if how to achieve this benchmarked level by MVHR explained clearly, the expected monitoring data can be reached easier after continuous ideal building fabric performance achievement. In Figure 54, as the Prototype Studio will have similar usage as an office rather than dwelling, the designed MVHR for throughout the year can be adjusted similarly. Furthermore, next to the MVHR display screen in Prototype Studio similar to Figure 55 a simple guidance can be placed and it can lead to affect both energy saving and user behaviour control throughout the year.

IBMS and ICT Feature towards Energy:

As mentioned in the Section 2, in order to deliver the advanced technologies work in coordination, there should be offered innovative and unique solutions for ‘Prototype Energy Autonomous Studio’. For instance, there can be developed an intelligent screen design which will show the features in order to reach the targets highlighted in the Chapter 2.4 as follows: (Figure 56)

Energy generation through renewable energy technologies: (The PV and wind turbine energy generation on a certain time interval) As observed from case study analysis, the interval period can be set as not less than 15 minutes of data collection during POE. Because, frequent data observation with short interval time may overload the system. But also an adjustment of internal period longer than 15 minutes may cause to miss some changes during the monitoring process. (i.e. CO2 level, temperature and humidity)

Energy consumption by the systems: (MVHR, Lighting and other related system operations at that moment)

Energy consumption by the users: In order to create an interaction between energy and occupancy, a designed screen can help to show which user, how much energy consumed at the moment in the prototype studio. For this reason, as an approach, the appliances can be used only by authorized cards which will be handed out at the entrance to the guests who want to use appliances such as kettle, charging their laptop in the building. Therefore, the every socket in the prototype studio should be metered and can be arranged to work only after swiping or scanning registered card at the socket rather than a conventional switch on/off function at the socket. The registry of the card will allow tracking the card user on the basis of energy consumption through intelligent card system technology. And, energy consumption at the moment will be shown in the designed screen. Therefore, the user will see how much energy consumed at that moment and showing all the input with clear illustration, the limited energy will reflect the user behaviour in terms of energy consumption as well as reducing carbon footprint.

The battery: The charged battery level as a percentage and the limited energy can be illustrated in hours with the current energy consumption continues after mathematical calculations.

The placement of user control and/or display screen from the point of Bordass (2007, p. 12) that can be chosen at the entrance of the structure. But, the position is critical in order not to be covered up and/or overlooked. (Bordass, et al., 2007, p. 12)

Figure 57 in relation to the POE method is important in terms of showing the major method implementations what should be. Accordingly, a questionnaire and the plan view of the sensors are designed.

5.2- Questionnaire Design for Prototype Studio

The full questionnaire is in Appendix 10. And, the questionnaire is designed according to the major principles.

The multiple choice and open-ended scale questions are preferred in this POE questionnaire. From the method of multiple choice questions type of rating scales method is broadly used in POE surveys. (Oseland, 2007, p. 32) For this reason, the large part of the questionnaire is organized with rating scales method and the last part ends with an open-ended question. In addition, five-point scales are chosen ‘because the respondent can easily distinguish between the extreme (end) points and middle point of a scale.’ (Oseland, 2007, p. 32)

The general structure and the subjects are benefitted from Guide to Post Occupancy Evaluation. (Blyth, et al., 2006, pp. 44-50)

The questionnaire is designed to be as focused, short and clear as possible

Figure 57: Quantitative factors, methods, parameters and related notes for POE development to be used in the Prototype Studio in Dundee Botanic Gardens (Stevenson & Rijal, 2010, p. 552)

Figure 58: The Monitoring System Outline Schematic. (macromicro studio, 2013b; macromicro studio, 2013a)

CHAPTER 6-DISCUSSION, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

6.1- Discussion and Findings

Based on carried out case studies some remarks can be made:

Plummerswood private housing: However, the implemented POE method is relatively simple, the substantial detailed data observation cause the study onerous. At the same time, following prescriptive process and complex protocol is undesired during the POE. On the other hand, the occupant meticulous study and great communication with the specialists towards POE data monitoring and observation lead to the satisfactory POE.

Dunoon passive houses: The building performance has impacted negatively by the poor implementation of several systems in the house. The POE was important to indicate the failing performance. Another point of view, nevertheless, this is a great example of POE that can be also established in affordable housing units as well.

Sigma home: After several problems occurred in renewable energy technology operation, the idea of to make the grid ‘green’ rather than generation energy individually is noted as more acceptable. The methods towards understanding occupant’s perception can be reduced. Especially, the video recording method can cause some privacy problems. After all methods, the occupant might find them frustrating. But also, observation of many perceptions in a variety of ways may not be necessary.

Monte Rosa Hut: This project can be taken the most similar project among the other case study projects. There are a great number of familiarities in the project evaluation. But, as it is defined sophisticated POE application for the Monte Rosa Hut, the prototype studio in Dundee may not need to be instrumented as such complexity. For example, the aim of the simulation technology can be defined differently. This is an important foreseeing system, whether the Monte Rosa Hut is available for occupancy by visitors or not. However, in the case of prototype studio, the simulation purpose can be thought as showing visitors the generated limited energy at the moment and future expected energy against their current consumption in the studio. By this way, the control over visitors can be achieved. The awareness of energy in the studio will be created. Therefore, the visitor’s energy consumption in the studio is expected to be lowered and even reduced totally while providing indoor thermal comfort.

6.2- Conclusion

There have been enormous studies conducted towards POE in both areas theory and practice. Consequently, the range of perspectives in theory and applications in practice advance the POE rapidly. This movement in the near future is appeared to be increased and spread for broad acceptance since the governments and their policy comply with these implementations. At the same time, POE has already taken its place in the business sector. A great number of companies, establishments and organisations have adopted POE service and started to offer to their customers with their own methods. On the other hand, there is unlikely to state that one POE method is the greatest. As the expectation and given importance changes against POE, the strategy on methods varies accordingly. The examined case studies also helped to give an insight about different aspect of POE including its results and findings. Alternatively, the bespoke POE method which is designed as an individual strategy can help against the decision of the best practice in POE. But, it reserves its own risks such as, understanding high level of technical systems and testing the very first implications towards technologies working together in consistency.

6.3- Recommendations

The study towards understanding the subjects related to the intelligent control systems; simulation technology, building automation and predictive control systems can be thought as another research area for the following stage in POE.

For wireless internet base control system in prototype studio, University of Dundee Information Technology Department can be called for the establishment of a secure and uninterrupted network connection.

Dundee University Students’ Association may assist to organise the designed questionnaire as web-based questionnaire which will be more practical.

7- References

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