Reaching Thermal Comfort Zone Limits for Resilient Building Operation: A Winter Case Study for Offices

A specific range of acceptable indoor thermal conditions is stipulated by building performance standards to assure minimum dissatisfaction of occupants. Thus, the operation of buildings in practice tends to follow a cautious approach by setting the indoor temperatures, for instance, in winters, at the upper limit of the acceptability range, aiming to maximize the occupants’ satisfaction rather than at the lower limit that could lead to minimized energy use. In this work, alternative heating setpoints in offices at the borderline of standardized comfort requirements are explored and compared with the real-life setpoint in the case study building in Lausanne, Switzerland. In addition, future weather scenarios by the IPCC are considered in the energy and comfort analysis. It is particularly relevant because of climate change and the necessity for the existing building stock to adapt to the changing demand. A nearly 50% decrease in the heating demand can be achieved by lowering the temperature setpoints with further reduction up to 20% in the warmer 2050 horizon. Although exposure to a cooler environment could increase at lower temperatures, clothing and activity adaptation of occupants can correct their thermal sensation; thus, people’s engagement in the creation of a resilient future should be considered.