What is ISO 52120-1:2021?
ISO 52120-1:2021, titled “Energy performance of buildings – Contribution of building automation, controls, and building management – Part 1: General frameworks and procedures,” establishes a systematic approach to enhancing energy efficiency through building automation. It replaces the EN 15232-1:2017 standard, introducing a globally harmonized methodology for evaluating the energy-saving contributions of automation systems in residential and commercial buildings.
The role of building automation in ISO 52120-1:2021
At its core, ISO 52120-1:2021 highlights the critical role of building automation in reducing energy consumption and improving building performance.
- Comprehensive framework: The standard categorizes building automation and technical building management functions that contribute to the energy performance of buildings. It defines minimum requirements for automation functionalities, ensuring consistent energy performance benchmarks.
- Energy impact assessment: The standard offers two approaches to assess the energy impact of building automation systems.
- Factor-based method to get a first estimation of the effects of these functions on typical building types and use profiles.
- Detailed method delivers precise calculations tailored to specific building structures and conditions.
Benefits of ISO 52120-1:2021
The implementation of ISO 52120-1:2021 unlocks several benefits.
- Improved energy performance: The standard promotes systems that dynamically adjust energy usage based on real-time data, ensuring minimal waste and optimal efficiency.
- Building intelligence: The standard encourages the integration of intelligent systems to predict energy demands and proactively optimize resources.
- Simplified compliance: For building managers and stakeholders, ISO 52120-1:2021 provides a clear roadmap for meeting energy efficiency goals and adhering to international standards.
- Global applicability: The harmonized approach makes the standard applicable across diverse building types and geographic locations.
In conclusion, ISO 52120-1:2021 represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. By providing a harmonized methodology, it bridges the gap between EU energy goals and practical implementation, paving the way for smarter, greener buildings.