Load Matching, Grid Interaction, and Advanced Control - Modeling, Design, and Optimization of Net-Zero Energy Buildings - page 297

allows a “time decoupling” of the building loads from the cooling or
heating power provided by the equipment ( Figure 6.2 ) .
Fig. 6.2 Use of a thermal energy storage device to decouple the main
equipment from the building load. Adapted from (ASHRAE, 2007)
Although not necessarily a primary motivation, reducing peak loads also
increases the degree of autonomy of the building, which is a desirable
feature in the case of remote locations or when security requirements are
essential. Other incentives may include qualification for a specific energy
label or compliance with legal, environmental, or safety regulations.
Customarily, and unfortunately, building operation and control have been
relegated to the last stages of the building design process. As load
management in buildings becomes an increasingly important issue, the
development of appropriate control strategies during the design stage
should play an increasingly relevant role.
6.1.2.3 Smart Grid and Other Technology Drivers
The problem of load matching and grid interaction lies at the interface
between “smart buildings” and “smart grid” ( Figure 6.3 ). Although the
concept of smart grid is still evolving, it commonly refers to technologies
that enable an intensive, automated use of bidirectional data flow among