Modelling and design of a linear predictive controller for a solar powered HVAC system

The world´s increasing population growth has led to a rapidly rising building sector. A major source of global energy consumption are buildings and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. Therefore, the energy-efficient operation of buildings and HVAC systems as well as the optimal use of renewable energy sources have become the crucial factor with respect to the goals of reducing energy consumption and hence contribute to the desired climate change mitigation. More intelligent automation and control for buildings and their energy systems represent a simple and cost-effective way how to achieve the desired goal of lower energy consumption and to promote the use of alternative energy sources. In contrast to the conventional control approaches, employing model based predictive control techniques provides for the possibility to exploit the potentials of the controlled HVAC systems in a larger scale and therefore contribute to the energy efficient building operation. This paper presents the design of a model based predictive controller for a solar powered HVAC system. The advantages of the predictive control concept are emphasized on the basis of a comparison of the MPC control approach supplied with correct and incorrect weather forecast information.