Enhancing energy efficiency and occupant wellness with AI

The panels convert approximately 20% of solar energy into electricity, and the heat exchange at the bottom absorbs the remaining solar energy as heat. The installation generates 200,000kWh renewable energy every year, which can charge around 2,500 electric vehicles. In addition, the heated water  generated can meet the building’s  hot water demand for showers and hand washing.

Balancing occupant health and energy efficiency

One of our challenges was to enhance the energy efficiency of the ventilation system while maintaining desirable indoor air quality (IAQ). Conventional demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) systems typically use carbon dioxide (CO₂) as the primary control parameter, often neglecting other pollutants that significantly influence IAQ.

In collaboration with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), we developed AI-based machine learning algorithms, leading to a bespoke smart IAQ monitoring and controlling system (novel DCV). This system provides five control parameter options, allowing operators to manage fresh air flow rates more comprehensively, considering factors beyond just occupancy.

The IAQ sensors can record and upload air pollutant concentration data to the cloud. Leveraging big data analysis and AI machine learning, control parameters can be optimised automatically based on real-time data. This improves the accuracy of sensors and the responsiveness of ventilation control, achieving energy efficiency and optimal IAQ simultaneously.

Hong Kong’s first application of automatic adaptive thermal comfort

Beyond ventilation, thermal comfort is another key element to enhance the wellness of building users. Our challenge was to maintain thermal comfort regardless of outdoor temperature and business culture. To resolve the inflexibility of conventional MVAC systems, we introduced Hong Kong’s first application of automatic thermal comfort. 

Our Adaptive Thermal Comfort Monitoring and Controlling System (nACT control) is incorporated with the calibrated adaptive comfort temperature (ACT) model, specifically developed for Hong Kong’s air-conditioned buildings  by PolyU scholars. Unlike other systems that require manual modification, the nACT can be automatically updated. 

As the pioneer to adopt this system, 11 SKIES allows flexible and responsive adjustment of indoor temperature, offering a truly comfortable indoor environment to the users.