Energy flexibility of PCM-integrated building: Combination parameters design and operation control in multi-objective optimization considering different stakeholders

The integration of the PCM to enhance the thermal mass of the envelope in the design stage and the application of intelligent controls to the building during the operation stage are key solutions to improve energy flexibility. However, the previous studies conducted separate research on the two stages. Besides, most studies did not fully consider the interests of different stakeholders when improving the building energy flexibility. To address the above problems, the numerical model of the PCM-integrated building is built and verified. A demand-side management which includes pre-cooling and floating indoor air set point is applied to the building under the dynamic pricing in Hong Kong. A multi-objective optimization model is built considering the interests of the power grid, building users, and the environment. Three optimal schemes are obtained, which include the optimal parameters of the PCM and the pre-cooling time length. The results show that, compared with the reference case, the energy flexibility indexes of the three optimal schemes are 24.21%, 26.75%, and 32.78%. The peak load of the three optimal schemes is reduced by 90.78%, 92.67%, and 92.87%, while the total energy usage, electricity bills, and CO2 emissions are also reduced. Using the optimal parameters design and control strategy on the PCM-integrated building benefits the grid, building users, and the environment simultaneously. This study guides the choice of different control strategies and parameters designed for PCM-integrated buildings.