Demand Response with Variable-Capacity Light Commercial HVAC Systems

For light commercial applications, Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems and packaged Rooftop Units (RTUs) leverage variable-speed components and complex controls to achieve superior part-load efficiency over conventional equipment. With their on-board instrumentation and communications capabilities, VC systems are prime candidates for implementing both EE and DR functionality, potentially offering dual program participation. Yet, the variable-speed capabilities of these systems have not been fully leveraged for Demand Response (DR).

This project sought to demonstrate advanced DR control strategies for VC air-to-air HVAC systems in light commercial buildings.