Abstract

This thesis examines the possibilities and limitations of connecting office buildings to demand response programs, with emphasis on the effect it has on indoor climate. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (AC) systems was used as a source to scale power, and thereby contribute with power to capacity markets related to the electrical grid. By using a model in MatLab, simulations were performed, as well as live tests in one of Vasakronan’s buildings, this work contributes with knowledge of Demand Response in office buildings in the Swedish environment which to date have been lacking in the literature. Key findings were that all systems considered in this report has potential to be used as power sources when office buildings contribute to Demand Response Programs. Heating and AC systems has greater power saving potential, however, using AC as control function is likely to affect indoor temperature more than the heating system. Ventilation also holds potential as a source of power savings, but depending on which degree it is reduced, it affects the carbon dioxide levels in the air to varying degrees. This thesis also discuss appropriate digital structure for a Demand Response system for buildings, considering the conclusions from this thesis as well as related literature.