Practical challenges of model predictive control (MPC) for grid interactive small and medium commercial buildings

This paper discusses the practical challenges and lessons learned in implementing and testing three types of model predictive control (MPC) solutions (ON/OFF unit, dual-fuel, and VRF systems) in small and medium commercial buildings (SMCBs) as part of efforts to create grid-interactive efficient buildings (GEBs). It highlights the potential benefits of MPC technology, especially with recent low-cost advancements, but emphasizes the real-world difficulties in deployment. Key focus areas include site selection, eligibility, retrofit availability, modeling automation, and best practices for end-user interaction and error management to ensure successful operations.

Lead Organization: Berkeley Lab
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