Improving Energy Performance in Smart Buildings Through Information and Communication Technology: A State-of-the-Art Review

Buildings have become the primary energy consumer due to increased outdoor temperature rates due to global warming and climate change. Building Management Systems (BMS) are considered a key tool in improving energy management through automation, which relies on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) applications, leading to the emergence of smart buildings as an effective solution. However, a proper theoretical framework for integrating solutions at various levels remains lacking. This research aims to clarify the integrative relationship and its role in building automation to achieve optimal interaction between occupants and the building, focusing on using BMS to attain energy efficiency. Recent literature on integrating ICT with BMS has been reviewed to classify different variables and factors impacting the work topic. An overview of the current state of knowledge has been provided, and a comprehensive table of all potential factors, parameters, technologies, and tools at various levels (such as sensor level, device level, communication level, occupant comfort level, and communication with occupants) has been developed. This facilitates the development of a theoretical framework, which can serve as a basis for a practical decision-making tool to help designers make the best design decisions.