ABSTRACT
Occupant-centric controls (OCC) is an indoor climate control approach whereby occupancy and occupant comfort information are used in the sequence of operation of building energy systems. This chapter first defines six grades of controls-oriented occupant data. The promising sensing technologies currently available to acquire occupant data at each grade are introduced. Sequences of operation using occupant data within HVAC and lighting automation systems are then presented. Examples are provided for integrating these sequences in the building performance simulation-based design process. The range of energy savings with OCCs is presented through EnergyPlus simulations of a generic office space in different climates. Implementation challenges related to OCCs in actual buildings are discussed and recommendations are provided by synthesizing several well-documented field implementations.
