KNX plays key control role at The Crystal
A KNX network combined with a Siemens Desigo BEMS controls the Siemens Crystal building in London’s Royal Victoria Dock to maximise energy efficiency. Meeting-room chilled beams, trench heating, blinds and lighting are all controlled using devices on the KNX network. The Crystal is the first building in the world to reach both BREEAM Outstanding and LEED Platinum certification.
A combination of occupancy and CO2 sensors in meeting rooms put these area at day setpoints only when a room is occupied. Control is via room units, and occupants can use third-party touchscreens in each meeting room.
Renewable energy sources include wind power from the London Array of offshore wind farms and building-integrationed photo-voltaics. A ground-source heat-pump system meets all heating and cooling requirements.
Desigo enables the many renewable building-services elements to be used at their most effective levels because it is compatible with open protocols such as BACnet, KNX and Mbus. Its reporting features enable the building-management team to understand how energy is used and keep energy use within required parameters.
