IoT-Enabled Humans in the Loop for Energy Management Systems: Promoting Building Occupants' Participation in Optimizing Energy Consumption

The governments of various countries continue to be alarmed by the adverse environmental impact of fossil energy, which could result in additional pollution, polar glaciers further melting, and intensified natural disasters. Around the world, the consumption of fossil energy is a socioeconomic and sociopolitical calamity. However, remedies in such circumstances depend, to a great extent, on the availability of cleaner energy resources and governmental policies on energy pricing, consumption, and conservation. According to a recent World Bank report, air pollution and its effects on the global economy cost roughly US$225 billion in 2013. The American Lung Association has also announced that more than 50% of the U.S. population lives within regions with serious air pollution concerns. Additionally, global warming stemming from increased levels of fossil energy consumption has resulted in fewer rainy days, more droughts, and the higher usage of air conditioning appliances, causing even greater fossil energy usage. Despite having clear perspectives of the perceived challenges, certain countries with a substantial number of energy consumers could soon be facing the adverse consequences of global warming. Continuing the current level of energy consumption in developing countries as well as consumption patterns in populated regions of the world could also result in a deep shortfall of energy supply, leading to higher energy costs. The U.S. Energy Information Administration has reported that, in 2015, roughly 40% of U.S. energy consumption was in residential and commercial buildings. In many office spaces, building operators' intentions are to offer employees comfort; however, improper settings for room temperature, area lighting, air conditioning, ventilation, and other services in offices, laboratories, and meeting rooms result in the inefficient use of electricity. Consequently, corrective countermeasures and effective policies are essential to cope with energy production and consumption.