Marina Bonomolo

Overgrid: A Fully Distributed Demand Response Architecture Based on Overlay Networks

In this paper, we present Overgrid, a fully distributed peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture designed to automatically control and implement distributed demand response (DR) schemes in a community of smart buildings with energy generation and storage capabilities. As overlay networks in communications establish logical links between peers regardless of the physical topology of the network, the Overgrid is able to apply some power balance criteria to its system of buildings, as they belong to a virtual microgrid, regardless of their physical location. We exploit an innovative distributed algorithm, called flow updating, for monitoring the power consumption of the buildings and the number of nodes in the network, proving its applicability in an Overgrid scenario with realistic power profiles and networks of up to 10 000 buildings. To quantify the energy balance capability of Overgrid, we first study the energy characteristics of several types of buildings in our university campus and in an industrial site to accurately provide some reference buildings models. Then, we classify the amount of “flexible” energy consumption, i.e., the quota that could be potentially exploited for DR programs. Finally, we validate Overgrid emulating a real P2P network of smart buildings behaving according to our reference models. The experimental results prove the feasibility of our approach.

A laboratory setup for the evaluation of the effects of BACS and TBM systems on lighting

The paper focuses on the evaluation of the impact of Building Automation Control Systems (BACS) and Technical Building Management (TBM) systems on the performance of the lighting system in a residential building. In particular, this work shows a laboratory setup, installed at the DEIM of the University of Palermo, for simulating a typical apartment. The paper describes the laboratory, the lighting system and the BAC system installed and the test facility for evaluating the electricity consumption in presence and in absence of automation. The laboratory has been built within a research project funded by the Italian Minister of University and Research in the framework of the PON Smart Cities and Communities and Social Innovation “I-Next” (PON04a2_H).

Smart lighting in a historic context: a case study

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to address a project for lighting an old town in Italy. Its originality lies in the holistic approach that aims to fulfil several objectives. One is to reduce energy consumption by using efficient lamps and advanced control systems; the second one is to make the network viable and useful for many purposes by integrating ICT devices; the third one is to provide a new identity to the older part of the city by using new technologies and design concepts; while the last one is to ensure street and pedestrian safety according to codes and standards. Design/methodology/approach The plan of the city of Bagheria and the stock of luminaires of the city are analysed. A multidisciplinary approach has been adopted in order to: analyse the existing lighting infrastructure highlighting critical areas; design a new displacement and select typologies of luminaries able to provide proper light quality and distribution; propose an aesthetic solution and technical design for relevant historical building; and to include in the design process the concept of a new multifunctional pole. Together with an analysis of social benefits, an assessment of economic costs and benefits are discussed. Findings The project allows good energy savings, meets the standard requirements and gives a relevant and strategic improvement in social and environmental management of the city. Originality/value The work provides an example of integrated design of street lighting infrastructures for urban renovation in old cities in degraded environments.