Work

Optimizing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Winter Climate Control: Innovative Use of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems in University Buildings

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the energy efficiency and sustainability of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems in university buildings during the winter season, offering significant contributions to the field. A novel methodology is introduced to accurately assess the real Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of VRF systems, benchmarked against conventional Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technologies, such as natural gas-fueled boiler systems. The findings demonstrate outstanding seasonal energy performance, with the VRF system achieving a SCOP of 5.349, resulting in substantial energy savings and enhanced sustainability. Key outcomes include a 67% reduction in primary energy consumption and a 79% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions per square meter when compared to traditional boiler systems. Furthermore, VRF systems meet 83% of the building’s energy demand through renewable energy sources, exceeding the regulatory SCOP threshold of 2.5. These results underscore the transformative potential of VRF systems in achieving nearly Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) objectives, illustrating their ability to exceed stringent sustainability standards. The research emphasizes the strategic importance of adopting advanced HVAC solutions, particularly in regions with high heating demands, such as those characterized by continental climates. VRF systems emerge as a superior alternative, optimizing energy consumption while significantly reducing the environmental footprint of buildings. By contributing to global sustainable development and climate change mitigation efforts, this study advocates for the widespread adoption of VRF systems, positioning them as a critical component in the transition toward a sustainable, zero-energy building future.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app15052374

Authors: Yolanda Arroyo Gómez, Julio F. San José-Alonso, Luis J. San José-Gallego, Javier M. Rey-Hernández, Ascensión Sanz-Tejedor, Francisco J. Rey-Martínez

Institutions: Universidad de Valladolid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Universidad de Málaga

Language: English

Topic: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896