Control of distribution pumps in networks

What is service C-1d?

C-1d describes how a building controls the distribution pumps in a cooling network. These pumps circulate cooled water from the generator to the rooms.

The service is part of the Cooling domain within the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI). The SRI assesses how effectively a building uses smart technology to save energy and provide comfort.

A building automation and control system (BACS) can perform this control automatically. Without such a system, operation is manual or does not occur.

What functionality levels exist?

The service has five levels, numbered 0 to 4. Each level represents a higher degree of automation and energy efficiency.

• Level 0: no automatic pump control.
• Level 1: simple on/off control.
• Level 2: multi-stage control with several fixed settings.
• Level 3: speed-controlled pump operation based on internal estimation by the pump unit itself.
• Level 4: speed-controlled pump operation based on an external demand signal from the building management system (BMS).

At the highest levels, the pump continuously adapts its speed to actual cooling demand. This can significantly reduce pump energy consumption.

How does this service count towards the SRI score?

C-1d is not part of method A, the shortened SRI assessment. This method uses a selection of 27 smart-ready services from a total of 54.

In method B, the full assessment, C-1d does count. Each service's score is weighted according to seven impact criteria, such as energy efficiency and comfort.

The Cooling domain contributes to the building's final score, together with eight other domains. The final result is expressed as a percentage and classified into one of seven classes.