Dynamic Analysis of the Role of Thermal Inertia in the Heating System Control of Historical and Monumental Buildings

Abstract

Italy and Europe have a significant amount of historical heritage buildings that mark their cultural and social foundations and need to be protected. The majority of these buildings have poor energy performance and significant energy consumption. The particularity of this type of buildings is the high thermal inertia given by the thickness of the massive walls, which should be taken into account when designing and controlling the thermal system. The purpose of this study is therefore to present a methodology to evaluate the effect of thermal inertia and propose a solution of heating system control that takes into account this aspect. The building chosen as case study is the Ducal Palace of Modena, one of the most emblematic and important historical buildings of Italy. The Palace is located in the city of Modena, in northern Italy and the building is currently home of the oldest military academy of Italy. The results show that the use of a heating system control that takes into account the thermal inertia of the building improves comfort and allows reducing energy consumption.