There is growing pressure for buildings to perform better.
This not only means being more energy efficient to save on expenses as the energy bills surge, but also to adhere to the increasingly tight regulations that are being given by the European Union.
Fortunately, this pressure also cultivates innovation.
One such example of an innovation that helps the real estate sector move forward is the bGrid Smart Comfort Controller (BSCC). We asked Tom van Oers, Branch Office Manager Netherlands at Priva and lifetime building automation expert to explain how it is revolutionizing building automation.
Tom has been with Priva for almost two years but has an extensive background in building automation spanning more than two decades, making him the perfect candidate to explain what is currently happening in the market, and what a new product can bring to the table.
What is the BSCC?
The bGrid Smart Comfort Controller (BSCC) functions as an integrated part of the Building Management System and simplifies the engineering and commissioning of room controls for both HVAC and light.
It allows installers to achieve faster, budget-friendly and better-quality re-adjustments with smart valves; resulting in improved comfort and energy performance for building owners and users.
Why is there a need for the BSCC?
When it comes to renovating or building new commercial real estate, commissioning is one of the most time-consuming processes. Not only because every unit needs to be checked individually, but also because even a small bump in the road can have far-reaching consequences for the project as a whole.
Additionally, with sustainability high on everyone’s agenda – motivated by future regulations or otherwise – the building process is becoming more intricate. We are putting more thought into the way we build, heat, cool, and otherwise make use of buildings. This also requires the right people with the right knowledge to make these projects happen.
On top of this, there is a shortage of skilled labor in the building and installation sector. Installers have requests for projects aplenty, but struggle to find the teams to make these requests a reality.
The BSCC was developed to address these challenges head-on. By automating the testing & commissioning process, it saves time; reduces labor costs; eliminates the need for costly cabling; and minimizes the risk of human error to virtually zero.
What are the main changes the BSCC brings when compared to traditional systems?
Without a doubt – a significant reduction of risk for the installer!
Errors are more easily and directly noticed, minimizing the time and effort required to resolve issues. A lot of time was spent making it extremely easy to use. bGrid’s goal was to create something that enables even first-time users to achieve optimal results, in a user-friendly and intuitive way.
Not to mention it significantly reduces cabling, as the BSCC connects to the light fixture cabling and no central bus cabling is required. This also means that maintenance and changes will become an easier feat by extension.
In the future, it will become even more necessary to further simplify installation, engineering and commissioning processes. That is and will remain the most important goal for both bGrid and Priva. We believe that our technology should help our partners achieve their goals of delivering high quality and perfectly functioning Building Control and Management Systems in the shortest possible time.
Article continues after photos
Some projects which have incorporated the BSCC
How does the collaboration between Priva and bGrid work?
Priva is the market leader when it comes to Building Automation in The Netherlands and is one of the major providers in Europe. With bGrid in our portfolio we provide a smart building platform to bring real estate into the digital era.
Together, we offer a comprehensive, one-stop-shop solution that combines Priva’s expertise in building automation with bGrid’s cutting-edge structured data platform that enables great connectivity to third party apps, stimulates smart use of spaces and delivers valuable insights in the actual use of buildings.
Through Priva’s extensive partner network, we ensure smooth implementation, ongoing support, and a wide range of applications tailored to each building’s needs.