- Nofri Yenita Dahlan, Universiti Teknologi MARA
- Nurul Aqilah Mahmud, Universiti Teknologi MARA
As global focus intensifies on reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency, buildings have emerged as critical targets due to their significant share of energy consumption and carbon output. This article explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing building energy management by addressing inefficiencies, enhancing automation, and supporting sustainability goals. AI-powered Energy Management Systems (EMS), when combined with IoT devices, digital twins, and clean technologies like solar PV and battery energy storage systems, allow real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and intelligent control. These solutions optimize HVAC systems, lighting, load distribution, and occupant comfort while significantly reducing operational costs and energy waste.
Despite challenges such as aging infrastructure, data fragmentation, and emerging cybersecurity concerns, the opportunities for improvement remain substantial. Real-world applications demonstrate how AI supports smarter heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and lighting systems, demand response, predictive maintenance, digital twin and smart energy management with solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), contributing to energy savings and cost reduction. AI stands as a key enabler in the shift toward resilient, adaptive, and low-carbon buildings that meet both current demands and long-term climate objectives.
The article also discusses how policy support, new business models, and collaboration between stakeholders are helping accelerate adoption. AI is increasingly recognized not just as a technological upgrade but as a catalyst for creating low-carbon, resilient buildings prepared for future demands.
