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A smart design-based system for efficient and adaptive air conditioning

Electricity and grid systems cohort

Team: Jeslu Jacob (Accelerator Postdoctoral Fellow), Rishee Jain

Large indoor spaces are often fully air-conditioned, even when few occupants occupy only a portion of the space. (Image generated by Gemini)

Micro-Zonal Occupant-Centric Control (MZOCC) is an advanced HVAC control strategy that enables thermally personalized micro-zones within large, open-plan, commercial buildings. By dynamically responding to real-time occupancy and comfort needs and precisely directing conditioned air, MZOCC enhances occupant comfort while significantly reducing energy use in centralized air-conditioning systems. Simulation studies indicate energy savings of up to 60% compared to conventional operation. Building on these results, the technology is now moving toward real-world validation, with "Occucen" subtly advancing pilot explorations in buildings across the San Francisco Bay Area.