New York University
IN-2: Innovation 2

In-room Occupancy Based Temperature Controls NYU has installed almost 4,000 occupancy sensors and networked, "smart" thermostats in student dorm rooms across campus. These sensors and thermostats communicate with each other to automatically set back room temperatures when rooms are unoccupied. Rather than employ a fixed setback temperature, these smart devices calculate the maximum setback possible that will still maintain the preset length amount of time needed to return the student room to the setpoint temperature after reoccupancy. For example, on a hot summer day with daylight streaming in a window without blinds, only a 5F setback might allow the room to be returned to the setback temperature within 15 minutes after reoccupancy. But later in the day when the same room is in the shade, a 15F setback during unoccupied periods might be allowable. Thus, the system allows for maximal energy savings while ensuring the sustainability of the practice by paying careful attention to student comfort levels, thus reducing discomfort and complaints. The centrally networked system also allows for demand response, load shaving, energy saving over breaks and deep setbacks.