Cost and Energy Efficiency Analysis of HVAC Control Strategies for Thermal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality Management in Buildings in the Framework of EN 16798 Standard: A Case Study

The decarbonization of the building stock, driven by European energy efficiency policies, has resulted in increasingly energy-efficient and tightly sealed buildings with minimal exchange of energy and matter with the external environment. This trend raises new challenges for designers, particularly regarding indoor air quality and thermal comfort. To address these concerns, EN 16798 provides guidelines on maintaining thermal comfort and adequate air exchange rates to ensure healthy and comfortable indoor conditions. This study analyzes the energy and economic impacts of applying EN 16798 prescriptions. Results indicate that thermal energy demands, particularly for cooling and dehumidification, can exceed those of the baseline scenario. However, total electricity consumption and associated costs remain comparable to the reference case, while simultaneously improving indoor conditions for occupants.