Multi-Objective Optimization of Energy Efficiency and Thermal Comfort Applying the MOOM Tool in Public Office Buildings in the City of San Juan, Argentina

Abstract

Buildings are responsible for 40% of the world’s energy demand and CO2 emissions. In Argentina, buildings represent more than 40% of the total annual energy consumption. Energy-saving strategies can cause thermal discomfort for building’s inhabitants, compromising their health and performance. The problem centers on an imbalance between providing a high quality of life and comfort in interior office spaces and the high energy cost required to meet that objective. Both a high level of comfort and energy savings represent two objectives to be achieved. This paper proposes a new methodology that combines in situ measurement with mathematical simulation tools. Innovative techniques and models are incorporated for the elaboration of the MOOM optimization tool, applying thermal-energy multi-objective optimization, which operates dynamically during working hours. Results show significant savings for energy consumption for cooling office spaces in summer, from 57.5 to 83.3%, together with an increase in the quality of thermal comfort, with improvements between 4.7 and 29.4%.