US engineering organisation ASHRAE has released a guide focusing on the essential role of grid interactivity in the decarbonisation process.
The second in a series of guides developed by the ASHRAE Task Force For Building Decarbonization (TFBD), the Grid-Interactive Buildings for Decarbonization: Design and Operation Resource Guide is designed to provide information on maximising carbon reduction through buildings’ interaction with the electric power grid.
“Grid-interactive buildings actively engage with the energy grid,” says ASHRAE TFBD chair Kent Peterson. “They utilise smart technologies, renewable energy sources, and energy storage systems to optimise energy consumption and generation. This allows them to respond in real time to grid signals, thereby reducing overall demand and GHG emissions.
“Integrating buildings with the electrical grid is a critical component in the decarbonisation process. It’s an emerging focus for building professionals, and ASHRAE is thrilled to provide new guidance as we collectively work towards a more sustainable, resilient, and energy-efficient built environment.”
The guide offers best practices, design considerations and operational guidelines to target the three primary value streams of grid integration: reduced carbon emissions, cost savings, and resilience.
Although the guide focuses predominantly on commercial and multi-residential buildings, it also includes relevant aspects for the single-dwelling residential and industrial sectors. In addition to design guidance, the resource guide provides operational recommendations for both new and existing buildings, empowering them to optimise their available demand flexibility.
For more information and to purchase the guide, click here.