Vertically Integrated Systems in Stand - Alone

This involves having production units distribute to the consuming units through a single vertical and central distribution network. Each fl oor is served by an indirect connected substation (Figure 3). Enhancing comfort1 and reducing energy demand2 is possible when fl oorto-fl oor (rather than building-to-building) consumption is moderate (cooling) or low (heating) temperature radiant-based surface conditioning systems are used (possibly with dedicated outdoor air systems). This is particularly true when the design considers activating the building fl oor mass as a thermal capacitor. In a vertically integrated system, the heating and cooling plant acknowledges the low-temperature requirements associated with radiant-based systems and is designed to take advantage of condensing or renewable technologies or use standard boiler and chiller equipment. As noted by Olesen, “Hydronic concrete slab cooling and heating systems can use relative high water temperatures for cooling and relative low water temperature for heating. This increases the possibility of using renewable energy sources such as ground heat exchangers, solar energy for heating and cooling and free night cooling. It also increases the effi ciency of boilers, refrigeration machines and heat pumps (Steimle, 1999). On top of that the active concrete system may