Trends in building automation for 2024

In the dynamic landscape of building automation, the future promises a paradigm shift driven by technological advancements and emerging market trends. The global building automation systems market is projected to experience robust growth, fueled by escalating security concerns and a rising demand for comprehensive monitoring solutions. While security and access controls, encompassing critical features like fire and intrusion alarm systems, currently dominate, the trajectory is set for more integrated and efficient solutions.

Market outlook
The Covid-19 pandemic momentarily slowed commercial and industrial construction projects, impacting HVAC manufacturers and installers. However, this setback catalyzed a surge in Air Handling Unit (AHU) sales in certain regions due to an increased emphasis on ventilation. Despite these challenges, the building automation systems market is poised for substantial growth, with an expected market size surge from USD 181.89 billion in 2023 to USD 300.33 billion by 2028, driven by factors such as the Internet of Things (IoT) proliferation.

Integration and efficiency
Traditionally operating in silos, building automation systems are now steering towards integration with conventional systems. This not only bolsters security measures but also unlocks benefits such as advanced administration, cost savings, improved communication, and reduced incident response time. This trend is anticipated to be a cornerstone of the building automation system market's growth in the coming years.

Sustainability and energy efficiency
Building automation aligns seamlessly with global sustainability goals, especially in the context of the significant energy consumption by buildings. With the advent of the Internet of Things, there is a surge in connected devices, contributing to higher energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprints. As the world shifts towards green and smart buildings, India, too, is embracing this change with initiatives like the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC).

Next-gen sensors and IoT integration
The next-generation of building automation leans heavily on advanced sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT). These sensors are not only capable of controlling, automating, detecting, and maintaining various functions within buildings but also contribute to enhanced user control over thermal and lighting conditions. The trajectory indicates a shift from traditional building automation to the Building Internet of Things (BIoT).

Predictive analytics for maintenance
Predictive analytics, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), is becoming integral for predictive maintenance in building automation systems. This approach helps in anticipating and addressing potential issues before they escalate, minimizing downtime, and optimizing system performance.

Human-centric lighting
Human-centric lighting systems, designed to mimic natural light, are gaining popularity. These systems not only enhance occupant well-being and productivity but also contribute to energy efficiency by optimizing lighting conditions based on factors like time of day and user preferences.

Occupancy tracking and space optimization
Advanced sensors and IoT-enabled devices are being used for occupancy tracking. This data is leveraged to optimize space utilization, enhance energy efficiency, and improve overall building performance. This trend is particularly relevant in the context of flexible and shared workspaces.

Cyber security measures
With the increasing connectivity of building systems, there's a growing emphasis on cybersecurity. Building automation systems are implementing robust security measures to safeguard against cyber threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data.

India, recognizing the importance of energy conservation in buildings, has undertaken initiatives like the Initiative to Promote Habitat Energy Efficiency (IPHEE) and the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC). Government directives mandate green building certifications for central government public buildings, further propelling the adoption of building automation and control systems.

Connected fire safety systems (fire)
Fire safety, once defined by simple alarms and manual responses, is experiencing a revolution fueled by the Internet of Things (IoT). Leading organizations are now launching interconnected fire detectors equipped with advanced sensors, wireless communication, and even AI to pinpoint fires faster and with greater accuracy. This precision translates to targeted alerts, not blaring alarms for everyone, and swift, automated responses tailored to the specific situation.

Fire suppression systems engage only where needed, while access control protocols guide evacuation routes directly to your mobile device. But the benefits extend beyond immediate life-saving measures. Integration with building management systems (BMS) allows for centralized control and automated responses like closing fire doors, controlling ventilation, and activating emergency lighting. This not only minimizes damage but also streamlines emergency response by generating detailed muster reports and alerting key personnel directly.

Safe city (security)
Many Indian cities are facing significant challenges from urbanization including city administration, unexpected crises, infrastructure issues, and environmental and safety concerns. The government’s 100 Smart Cities Mission aims to leverage technology in addressing these needs. Myriad innovations show promise on this front – artificial intelligence and machine learning models can analyze data streams from vast sensor networks deployed across metros, uncovering actionable insights on optimizing traffic flows, allocating police resources as per dynamic requirements, implementing predictive building maintenance, and coordinating emergency response logistics.

Cloud-based command centers integrated using common standards promise a unified view allowing authorities to prioritize citizen-centric actions. Real-time information flows and helps in guiding officials to allocate resources efficiently, untangle traffic knots, and respond to emergencies swiftly.

City leaders, no longer operating blind, are getting empowered with actionable insights, transforming chaos into control. Technology adoption faces obstacles like legacy modernization, policy bottlenecks, and capability-building systematic progress could make cities noticeably more livable, safe, and resilient.

In conclusion, the future of building automation is intricately tied to integration, sustainability, and technological innovation. As buildings become smarter, the role of building automation systems in ensuring security, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort will be more pivotal than ever. The industry is on the cusp of transformation, with a promising outlook that extends beyond challenges posed by the recent global disruptions.

-- Pradeep Balijepalli - Chief Commercial Officer, Honeywell Building Technology.