AI and the Smart Buildings Revolution
AI shows extraordinary promise for transforming the world with its ability to compile and analyze vast amounts of information in real-time, apply reason, and improve processes. Research by PwC UK, commissioned by Microsoft, estimates that using AI for environmental applications could contribute up to $5.2 trillion USD to the global economy in 2030.1
However, the tremendous computational power required for AI processes could derail Net Zero pledges. Large corporations are rushing to embed AI into their processes to increase efficiency, improve the customer experience, and lower costs. Many of these also have aggressive carbon-reduction goals and while these organizations continue to grow, adding more customers and services, keeping emissions down is already a challenge. Understanding how the thoughtful application of AI frameworks combined with clean energy and managed energy use is critical.
Some businesses are focusing on developing energy-efficient AI algorithms that use resources and power more efficiently to lessen the carbon impact. Google is leading the way here, using its own AI “DeepMind” to reduce the energy consumption of its data centers by 40%.
AI has its share of enthusiasts and doomsayers, but its promise lies somewhere in the grey area between those saying it will solve all our problems and those predicting disaster and chaos. For many, the technology cycle is early, and there will likely be much discussion and upheavals as society figures out how laws will be created and applied.
The Opportunities for AI Within the Built Environment
A significant benefit of utilizing AI technology is its ability to optimize energy usage. Its ability to lean and adapt means a system can predict the demand, adjusting HVAC systems, and controlling lighting based on occupancy. The data it collects has the potential to predict equipment failures, enabling proactive maintenance.
Alongside energy efficiencies are operational efficiencies. For example, within the industry, there is a need for devices that could incorporate people counting. Building owners and facility managers want to know how many people are in their building or in a space so they can adapt systems and services, such as, HVAC and lighting system operation, cleaning rotas and even catering services to better serve the occupants as well as delivering performance and energy efficiencies. However, with this development in people counting technology comes issues such as privacy and how data is being collected.
AI technology can also improve occupancy wellbeing and comfort. Through intelligent monitoring, AI systems can personalize indoor environments. For instance, by learning preferences over time, AI can adjust temperature and lighting to create optimal conditions for individuals or groups within a building. Such enhancements can boost productivity and overall satisfaction.
Data, Data, Data
Our new dependence on web services and digital infrastructure requires a greater number of data centers and we need them to operate more reliably and efficiently than ever before.
As data centers contribute substantially to global electricity consumption, more facilities are seeking to adopt enhanced sustainability strategies. A Building Management System (BMS) can form the cornerstone of these efforts, providing insights into energy usage and helping to reduce unnecessary energy waste with enhanced operational efficiency.
Data centers are unique buildings and a BMS within this environment requires careful planning and implementation.
The Importance of Security
The smarter buildings become the greater the importance of cyber security. There are some fundamentals that building owners and system integrators need to consider when it comes to the security of their BMS.
As a starting point, the devices or operational technology (OT) should be on a different network to the IT system as they have separate security requirements and various people need to access them. As an example, contractors overseeing BMS devices do not need access to HR information. Each device should be locked down securely so they can only communicate in the way that is required. There should be no unnecessary inbound or outbound traffic from the devices. This links neatly to monitoring. It is vital to monitor the devices after installation and commissioning to ensure there is no untoward traffic to the devices that could threaten a building’s or company’s security.
AI Technology Is Here To Stay
It is true that AI technology is shaping the future of many aspects of our lives. It is also changing the landscape of building controls by making them smarter, more efficient and responsive. As adoption grows, AI-driven systems will play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development goals, enhancing occupant experiences, and creating buildings fit for the future. It is exciting to consider where AI can take humanity. However, it is understood, based on research, that AI technology is not suitable for every application. But in certain scenarios, it can bring amazing advantages.
Charles Pelletier is Vice President, Product Management, at Distech Controls™. Distech Controls connects people with intelligent building solutions through forward-thinking technologies and services, and partners with customers to deliver innovative solutions that can provide better health, better spaces, and better efficiencies.