In the quest for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, two key players have emerged: the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and the Digital Building LogBook (DBL). Both aim to capture and manage crucial building data throughout a structure’s lifecycle, but they often operate in silos, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. A groundbreaking study led by Sara Karami from the University of Coimbra is set to change that, paving the way for a more integrated and harmonized approach to building data management.
Karami, a researcher at the Centre for Informatics and Systems of the University of Coimbra and the Institute for Systems Engineering and Computers at Coimbra, has been delving into the intricacies of DBL and EPC data models. Her work, published in the journal ‘Developments in the Built Environment’ (translated from ‘Desenvolvimentos no Ambiente Construído’), offers a fresh perspective on how these models can be compared and ultimately unified.
The challenge, as Karami explains, lies in the heterogeneity and lack of consensus surrounding the elements and categories within these data models. “There are various initiatives proposing different LogBook data models, but they often lack a clear identification of key elements and effective incorporation of EPC elements,” she notes. This discrepancy can lead to disagreements and hinder the reuse of existing data, a critical factor in reducing the data carbon footprint and achieving net-zero objectives.
To address this, Karami and her team employed a semi-automatic, knowledge-based approach to compare the current DBL and EPC data models. The result is a comprehensive list of matched and unmatched elements per category, providing valuable insights into the available and common elements, as well as the most representative categories and their correlations.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. A harmonized LogBook data model could facilitate the reuse of existing data, reducing the need for redundant data collection and storage. This, in turn, could lead to substantial cost savings and improved energy efficiency. Moreover, a unified approach could enhance the overall sustainability of buildings, helping to meet the growing demand for green buildings and net-zero emissions.
As the built environment continues to evolve, the need for integrated and efficient data management becomes ever more pressing. Karami’s work offers a promising step forward, demonstrating the potential of semantic mapping and knowledge-based approaches in creating a more harmonized and sustainable future for the energy sector. The research, published in ‘Developments in the Built Environment’, is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking in addressing complex challenges. As the energy sector continues to grapple with the demands of sustainability and efficiency, such research will be instrumental in shaping the future of building data management and beyond.
