Impact of Dynamic Façades on Smart Readiness Indicator and User Satisfaction

Abstract

The Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI), introduced by the European Union in 2018, assesses a building’s capacity to accommodate smart-ready services. This evaluation focuses on optimizing energy efficiency, aligning operations with occupant needs, and responding to signals from the grid. Previous studies have evaluated SRI feasibility in various locations and retrofit scenarios, estimating the costs associated with implementing smart technologies in existing European buildings. However, the specific impact of digitizing distinct building services on SRI scores remains unexplored. Particularly, adaptive façade technologies show potential in enhancing overall building performance, being worthy to understand how these services influence the smart readiness rating of buildings. This study investigates the impact of adaptive façade technologies on SRI scores and user satisfaction. A case study of an office building in Delft (The Netherlands) was selected to assess the impact of smart technologies on energy efficiency and comfort. This paper shows preliminary results from the pre-intervention phase, where the SRI was calculated for both the baseline condition and a scenario with the highest possible level of smart services for the building envelope. The results from the SRI methodology showed an increase of approximately 4% in energy efficiency and 15% in terms of energy flexibility. In addition, the SRI predicts similar improvements in user convenience, information, health & well-being, but only 4% in user comfort. This was confirmed by the assessments on user perception and preferences. Users reported to be “slightly satisfied” with several comfort domains. Additionally, several users considered better control of external shadings very important, which was currently reported as very disruptive by users. This preliminary finding shows potential for smart services applied at the façade level to improve user satisfaction if aspects of interaction and convenience are adequately addressed. Post-intervention phase data is now required to confirm these preliminary findings.