Thermal Energy and Building Performance

Globally speaking, the building industry is responsible for 40% of primary energy consumption. Initiatives to improve bioclimatic design, the implementation of innovative energy efficiency measures and the integration of energy systems from renewable sources are essential for reducing emissions.

Main lines of work:

• Energy efficiency: 
  • Buildings
  • Thermal processes in industry
  • Optimization of centralized generation systems
  • Utilization of residual heat

• Building: minimization of the energy demand of buildings through design, efficient use and the integration of renewable energies to cover this energy demand.

 

Thermal Energy

• Efficient integration of technologies to produce heating, cooling and electricity. Simulation and optimization of thermal energy generation systems for buildings for the tertiary sector and residential use and for industrial processes. Development of control strategies.

• Micro-generation
• Heat pumps
• Thermally activated cooling equipment: absorption, adsorption, desiccant
• Geothermal 
• Low- and medium-temperature solar thermal energy
• Photovoltaic solar energy
• Collection systems: seasonal and phase change

• Development of emulators and integration with dynamic tests    to determine the overall seasonal performance of thermal equipment.

 

Building

• ZERO ENERGY buildings and/or neighborhoods: Design, study, simulation and optimization of buildings and neighborhoods with a zero energy balance or clean energy producers.

• Reduction of energy demand in office buildings:    Comprehensive development of solutions for the energy demand for heating, cooling and lighting in buildings and/or high energy consumption sectors (i.e.: datacenters, hospitals): solar protection, passive cooling, natural ventilation, solar gain, natural lighting, insulation, etc.

• User interaction with control systems in buildings:    Measurement, simulation and study of critical aspects that influence the thermal and visual comfort of users. Mobility models, behavior and interaction with management systems in buildings: solar protection, climate and lighting. Adaptive control systems.