Methodologies for continuous commissioning of integrated building systems

Abstract

As a valid means to improve building sustainability, envelope and energy consuming systems’ (e.g. HVAC, BMS) commissioning should be performed continually during the whole building lifecycle. ICT-supported lifecycle commissioning of integrated systems is experiencing a rapid growth through international cooperation in Research and Development (R&D). Therefore, the author formulates the following hypothesis for his research: New properties should be constructed matching high energy standards. Furthermore, there is a need to maintain existing buildings regularly to prevent their degradation. If energy consumption of buildings is to be reduced and acceptable comfort levels are to be maintained, then Continual Commissioning (CC) methodologies should be deployed. However, all currently identified CC practices are based on specific skills and tools available to their developers, and without common methodological structure applicable to every system or facility under commissioning. This gap should be covered with formulation of the progressive, flexible and scalable concept called “Modular Continual Commissioning” (mCC). Practical application of this concept will help to save labour, time and costs required for building integrated systems’ operation and commissioning. It is expected that the results of this thesis will be generally applicable and can be used for the further development of Continual Commissioning (CC) processes in various facilities and will improve buildings’ comfort and efficiency.