Work

Digital Twin for building energy and thermal comfort management: A systematic review from an occupant-centric perspective

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Digital Twin (DT) technology presents a promising opportunity for enhancing building performance; however, current implementations are primarily focused on energy efficiency and often overlook the dynamic, real-time dimensions of occupant comfort. This systematic review analyses 40 peer-reviewed studies to explore how an Occupant-Centric Digital Twin (OCDT) can also incorporate thermal comfort feedback for multi-objective building performance management. Study findings revealed that DT technology can deliver 12-70% energy savings, but large-scale adoption remains limited. An OCDT approach is still in its infancy with only 15% of the reviewed studies integrating real-time occupant feedback. Key challenges to progressing OCDT include interoperability issues, inconsistent feedback mechanisms, and concerns over data privacy and management. To address these gaps, this study proposes a five-layer OCDT architecture comprising of physical environment modelling layer, data acquisition, system integration, intelligent control, and user interface and visualisation layer. This framework serves as a strategic roadmap for transforming DTs from passive monitoring tools into adaptive, human-in-the-loop systems that dynamically balance operational energy efficiency and occupant wellbeing.

Source: Digital engineering.

DOI: 10.1016/j.dte.2026.100104

Authors: Naoneet Deo, Rodney A. Stewart, Fan Zhang, Mohammud Irfaan Peerun

Institution: Griffith University

Language: English

Topic: Building Energy and Comfort Optimization

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,740