ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the use of an IT layer included as part of an EMS installed in an electrically heated multifamily apartment complex. The work builds upon earlier work in similar apartment complexes by Lopes and Hirschfeld. Although often overlooked, behavioral change is a part of virtually all energy management projects. The response of building occupants is another aspect of behavioral change that energy management projects must take into account, especially when key comfort factors such as temperature, air flows or lighting are altered. IT itself can be a powerful driver of behavioral change. In addition to making convincing data available to support the behavioral acceptance of the control function, the IT-based Energy Information system can also provide a valuable window into resident behaviors. The system integrates an RF wireless communication local network within the buildings with heating control elements and Web-based data for monitoring and management.
