THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
142
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
PUBLISHED DATE: - 26-10-2024
https://doi.org/10.37547/tajet/Volume06Issue10-16
PAGE NO.: - 142-149
OPTIMIZATION OF HEAT CONSUMPTION IN
CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS AT
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
Chaykin Alexander
CEO and founder of Sanline LLC St. Petersburg, Russia
INTRODUCTION
The rational use of thermal energy in commercial
facilities represents a pressing issue considering
rising energy costs and tightening environmental
regulations. Central heating systems, commonly
found in office buildings, shopping centers,
industrial complexes, and similar structures, are
often characterized by low efficiency and excessive
heat consumption. In this regard, researchers in
scientific studies examine innovative methods and
various technological solutions to minimize heat
loss and optimize the performance of heating
systems in the commercial sector.
The research problem lies in the fact that
inefficient use of thermal energy in central heating
systems of commercial properties leads to
significant economic losses and a negative
environmental impact. There is a growing need for
the development and implementation of solutions
that optimize heat consumption, taking into
account the specifics of buildings, modern
technological capabilities, and economic factors.
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Open Access
Abstract
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
143
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
Methods and Materials
The study utilizes comparative analysis,
systematization,
and
generalization.
Contemporary scientific works that address
specific aspects of the topic were analyzed. Several
publications focus on innovative technologies and
effective solutions in the field of heating and heat
supply. D.K. Karapetyants examines efficient
developments in residential and commercial
buildings [1], while V.P. Plaksina analyzes the
current state and prospects for the development of
innovative technologies [2]. S.N. Chebysheva, S.I.
Bliznyuk, and M.V. Pralnikova address the issue of
energy-efficient heat consumption design [5].
These studies emphasize the importance of
implementing modern developments.
Other researchers focus on alternative energy
sources and low-temperature heat supply systems.
A.V. Fedorov explores the use of geothermal heat
pumps for heating commercial and infrastructure
facilities [4], a promising direction. S.V. Chicherin
analyzes options for transitioning to a low-
temperature heat supply [8], which can
significantly
reduce
heat
loss
during
transportation. In an international context, S.
Boahen and J. Choi investigate trends in cascade
heat pumps [9], which provide high efficiency
across a wide range of temperatures.
Some works are dedicated to the measurement
and accounting of thermal energy, which is highly
significant for optimizing heat consumption. O.V.
Stukach, I.Yu. Popov and P.A. Zorin apply the total
variation method for error recognition in the study
of commercial heat energy accounting data [3]. V.P.
Chipulis addresses the adequacy of thermal energy
measurement in open systems [6, 7], which is
especially relevant for commercial properties with
high consumption levels.
Finally, L. Yang and co-authors present a model of
economic optimization for dispatching a microgrid
with a compressed air energy storage solar hub
[10], which demonstrates a comprehensive
approach that incorporates renewable energy
sources as well as storage systems.
Thus, the authors employ various approaches to
address the topic, emphasizing the importance of
systematic actions to improve the energy
efficiency
of
commercial
facilities,
with
technological, economic, and environmental
aspects taking center stage.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The first step in the process of optimizing heat
consumption is a detailed analysis of the sources of
losses. Upon reviewing modern publications, it is
found that the main channels of heat loss in
commercial properties are as follows (Fig 1):
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
144
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
Fig. 1. Identification of key sources of heat loss [3, 5, 9]
For an accurate assessment of heat losses, modern diagnostic methods are applied, including thermal
imaging surveys, which allow for the identification of areas with increased heat output. The analysis of
the obtained data serves as the basis for the subsequent development of a set of measures for building
thermal modernization.
Next, it is reasonable to focus on the characteristics of technological solutions that enable energy
efficiency improvement. They are listed in the diagram (Fig. 2).
Up to
40%
Enclosing structures
(walls, roof, foundation)
Up to
25%
Translucent constructions
(windows, stained glass)
Up to
30%
Ventilation, air conditioning systems
Up to
15%
Inefficient operation of heating
devices, pipelines
Sol
u
ti
o
n
s
Modernization of envelope structures
Optimization of translucent structures
Heat recovery in ventilation systems
Modernization of heating systems
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
145
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
Fig. 2. Systematization of technological solutions for energy efficiency improvement [1, 5]
Thus, one of the key areas for optimizing heat
consumption is improving the thermal insulation
properties of building enclosures. The use of
modern
insulation
materials
(primarily
polyurethane foam or aerogel) significantly
reduces the thermal conductivity of walls and
roofs. Innovative facade systems with ventilated
gaps not only enhance the thermal protection
properties of a building but also prevent
condensation, thereby increasing the durability of
the structures.
From a technological standpoint, it is also relevant
to mention the replacement of outdated windows
with modern energy-efficient models featuring
low-emissivity coatings and inert gas filling
between the panes, which can significantly reduce
heat loss through transparent components. The
use of dynamic glazing with adjustable
transparency ensures optimal lighting and thermal
balance in rooms, depending on the time of day,
season, etc.
Furthermore, the introduction of heat recovery
systems into ventilation units allows for the
utilization of up to 85% of the thermal energy
contained in the exhaust air. The use of rotary or
plate-type devices enables efficient heat exchange
between supply and exhaust airflows, significantly
reducing the load on the heating system.
Regarding the optimization of heating system
operation, it relies on the following key aspects:
- Installation of automated individual heating
substations (IHS) with weather-dependent
regulation, allowing flexible control of the heat
carrier supply based on external climate
conditions;
- Implementation of zoned control using
thermostatic valves and room thermostats to
maintain the set temperature in individual rooms;
- Use of variable-frequency drives on circulation
pumps, which helps regulate the flow of the heat
carrier and electricity consumption;
- Application of highly efficient heating devices
with improved heat output, such as bimetallic
radiators and forced convection solutions.
A key element in optimizing heat consumption in
modern commercial buildings is the use of
intelligent energy management systems (IEMS).
These systems integrate data from numerous
sensors, analyze the nuances of room usage, and
take into account weather forecasts to create
optimal algorithms for heating equipment
operation.
The intelligent energy management system (IEMS)
performs several crucial functions, which are listed
in Figure 3.
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
146
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
Fig. 3. The main functions of the intelligent energy management systems [2, 5]
The use of intelligent energy management systems
allows for heat energy savings of up to 30-40%
compared to traditional control systems [2].
The integration of renewable energy sources (RES)
into the heating systems of commercial facilities
represents a promising direction for optimization.
The most effective technologies in this area
include:
- Heat pumps utilizing low-potential heat from the
ground, air, or wastewater. Modern systems
significantly reduce primary energy consumption;
- Solar thermal systems integrated into building
facades and roofs, capable of providing up to 60%
of hot water needs and partially covering heating
loads during transitional seasons;
- Trigeneration systems based on gas engine plants
that simultaneously generate electricity, heat, and
cooling, achieving an overall efficiency of up to
90%;
- Biomass boilers that use local renewable
resources (e.g., wood waste, pellets) as fuel [10].
The combination of various technologies within
Predictive heating control, which takes into account
the thermal inertia of the building. predicted changes in
weather conditions
Dynamic zoning providing different temperature
regimes (depending on the schedule of room
utilization)
Integration with lighting / shading systems to
optimize solar heat gain
Air quality monitoring, automatic adjustment of
ventilation system operation
Detection of anomalies in equipment operation,
predictive diagnostics of malfunctions
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
147
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
hybrid heating systems optimizes energy resource
costs and significantly reduces the carbon
footprint of commercial properties.
Next, it is appropriate to focus on the economic
aspects of the topic discussed in the article.
The
implementation
of
energy-efficient
technologies
requires
significant
initial
investments, but the long-term benefits of their
implementation are substantial. An analysis of the
life cycle of heat consumption optimization
projects shows that the payback period for
comprehensive measures is 3-7 years (depending
on the initial condition of the facility and the
chosen technological solutions) [2].
The key economic advantages are systematized in
the diagram (Fig 4):
Fig. 4. Highlighting the main economic effects (compiled by the author)
The algorithm proposed in Table 1 is an original development aimed at improving the efficiency of heat
consumption management. It includes stages from analyzing the current state to full integration with
digital platforms.
Effect
s
Reduced operating costs
Increase in the market value of real estate
Increasing the attractiveness of the facility for environmentally-
oriented tenants
Compliance with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements
energy efficiency, minimizing the risk of fines and the need for
urgent retrofitting in the future
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
148
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
Table 1
–
Recommended algorithm for integrating heating systems of commercial facilities into
the concept of "smart cities" (compiled by the author)
Stage
Action
Result
1. Assessment of
existing
infrastructure
Analysis of current heating systems at the
commercial facility: their energy efficiency,
technical condition, and modernization
potential.
Identification of
"bottlenecks" and
opportunities for
improvement.
2. Implementation
of sensors and
monitoring
systems
Installation of sensors for temperature,
humidity, pressure, and other indicators.
Connection of the monitoring system to cloud
platforms for data collection and analysis.
Continuous real-time
monitoring of heating system
indicators.
3. Integration with
digital platforms
Connection of the heating system to city
resource management platforms via the Internet
of Things (IoT). Utilization of weather data,
occupancy rates, and energy tariffs.
Automatic control of the
heating system based on
external data and forecasts.
4. Optimization of
energy
consumption
Application of artificial intelligence algorithms
for predicting heat consumption and adapting
system operation. Introduction of energy-
efficient modes.
Reduction of energy costs,
and improved comfort at the
facility.
5. Performance
analysis and
adjustment
Regular analysis of heat consumption data,
costs, and achievement of energy efficiency
goals. Adjustment of system operation.
Increased operational
efficiency with minimal
costs.
6. Scaling and
integration
Expansion of successful solutions to other
facilities. Connection of additional intelligent
systems for comprehensive building
management.
Full integration of facilities
into the "smart city"
infrastructure.
The proposed algorithm is expected to effectively
integrate the heating systems of commercial
facilities into the concept of "smart cities," which
will contribute to reducing heat consumption,
increasing energy efficiency, and creating suitable
conditions for sustainable management of urban
resources.
CONCLUSIONS
Optimizing heat consumption in central heating
systems of commercial facilities is a multifaceted
task that requires the application of innovative
technological solutions and a systematic approach
to energy resource management. The integration
of modern insulation methods, high-efficiency
heating equipment, intelligent systems, and
renewable energy sources enables significant
reductions
in
heat
consumption
while
simultaneously enhancing user comfort and
minimizing environmental impact.
Future research in this area should focus on the
THE USA JOURNALS
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (ISSN
–
2689-0984)
VOLUME 06 ISSUE10
149
https://www.theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajet
development of new materials with improved
thermal insulation properties, the enhancement of
predictive energy consumption management
algorithms, and the optimization of hybrid heating
systems. Special attention should be given to the
integration of commercial heating systems into the
concept of "smart cities," which will allow for the
realization of the potential of interconnected
buildings within a unified energy network.
REFERENCES
1.
Karapetyants D.K. Boiler installations:
effective solutions for basic residential and
commercial buildings with heating systems /
D.K. Karapetyants // Decision.
–
2023.
–
Vol. 1.
–
pp. 30-33.
2.
Plaksina V.P. Innovative technologies in heat
supply and heating systems: current state and
prospects of development / V.P. Plaksina //
Innovative potential of society development: a
view of young scientists. Collection of scientific
articles.
–
Kursk: 2023.
–
pp. 382-385.
3.
Stukach O.V. Application of the method of full
variation of error recognition to the study of
commercial accounting data for thermal
energy / O.V. Stukach, I.Y. Popov, P.A. Zorin //
Automation and software engineering.
–
2021.
–
№ 4 (38). –
Pp. 55-61.
4.
Fedorov A.V. The use of geothermal heat
pumps
for
heating
commercial
and
infrastructure facilities / A.V. Fedorov // Chief
power engineer.
–
2021.
–
No. 11.
–
pp. 4-11.
5.
Chebysheva S.N. On the issue of the energy-
efficient design of heat consumption systems /
S.N. Chebysheva, S.I. Bliznyuk, M.V. Pralnikova
// Nauka melody
–
the future of Russia.
Collection of scientific articles.
–
Kursk: 2023.
–
pp. 169-171.
6.
Chipulis V.P. Adequacy of thermal energy
measurement in open heat consumption
systems / V.P. Chipulis // Sensors and
systems.
–
2022.
–
№ 1 (260). –
Pp. 39-47.
7.
Chipulis V.P. Adequacy of thermal energy
measurement in open heat consumption
systems / V.P. Chipulis // Sensors and
systems.
–
2022.
–
№ 1 (260). –
Pp. 39-47.
8.
Chicherin S.V. Analysis of heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning technologies for the
transition to low-temperature heat supply /
S.V. Chicherin // Construction: science and
education.
–
2019.
–
T. 9.
–
№ 3 (33). –
p. 8.
9.
Boahen S. Research trend of cascade heat
pumps / S. Boahen, J. Choi // Science China
Technological Sciences.
–
2017.
–
Vol. 60.
–
No.
11.
–
Pp. 1597-1615.
10.
Yang L. Economic optimization dispatch model
of a micro-network with a solar-assisted
compressed air energy storage hub, with
consideration of its operationally feasible
region / L. Yang, M. Zong, X. Chen, Ya.Si, L.
Chen, Y. Guo, Sh. Mei // Processes.
–
2022.
–
Vol. 10.
–
No. 5.
–
Pp. 963.
