Real-Time Occupant People Counting for Sustainable IAQ

Real-Time Occupant Count-Based DCV by Feedback Solutions. The operation of buildings accounts for approximately 30% of global GHG emissions. Inefficient HVAC systems are a significant contributing factor. Feedback Solutions offers a new strategy for Demand Control Ventilation in buildings using real-time occupant counts to address this problem.

Feedback leverages best in class 3rd party people counting sensors with its patented technology platform to continuously calculate highly accurate, real-time occupant counts within each HVAC zone in a building. This data is then communicated via BACnet/IP, (sent as an analog input value to the BMS or DDC) so that ventilation requirements are optimized seamlessly based on actual occupant demand. Feedback works with the clients’ BMS supplier to define a new sequence of operations to modulate the fan speeds and damper positions to supply the required amount of outdoor air based on the actual ventilation requirement. These real-time adjustments reduce HVAC-related energy consumption by as much as 40%, significantly reducing GHG emissions and resulting in less wear and tear on critical HVAC equipment. This is achieved while meeting important ASHRAE guidelines and ensuring required Indoor Air Quality. They call it ‘Sustainable IAQ’. This immediately deployable solution takes the pressure off of the need to complete deep retrofits to meet pressing GHG reduction targets.

The highly accurate space utilization data that they produce helps key stakeholders make informed operational decisions and supports business analytics. This critical data set is made available with an ROI and short payback period given the energy savings achieved. Also, additional incentives of up to 50% of the implementation fee are available in an increasing number of jurisdictions. Feedback Solutions is a Launch NY portfolio company supported by New York Ventures/ESD. They are a proud member of the 2022/2023 USGBC-LA Net Zero Accelerator cohort.