In the absence of space conditioning standard contextual to Indian context, the space conditioning systems for buildings are designed based on ISO and ASHRAE thermal comfort standards. Field observations have indicated that these systems often operate at 22.5 ± 1°C (72.5°F ± 1.8°F) all year round without adjusting to comfort needs of the occupants. Such operational practices are largely attributed to an increased expectation for stable comfort conditions.
CEPT has developed adaptive thermal comfort model contextual to climate conditions in India. This study addressed comfort expectations of office workers in naturally ventilated building, mixed mode buildings (buildings which rely on mechanical cooling systems to maintain thermal comfort only during adverse outdoor conditions) and air conditioned buildings. Study found strong evidence that Indians can be comfortable at higher temperature the year with wider range of temperature adaptability of Indian subjects.
Deployment of adaptive thermal comfort standard is expected to save enormous amount of savings. Adaptive thermal comfort standard also will allow many other non-conventional, Low energy cooling technology to serve space cooling requirements. Identification of such technology will also make path of wider range of product availability in Market.
The study will provide following outcomes: