CO2 emissions in construction to be mapped with the Internet of Things: “Current estimates are inaccurate”

This post is also available in: Danish

The research project aims to develop a database that can be used in a simulation tool to accurately predict energy consumption and carbon emissions from construction projects. This will enable clients to document building emissions and energy consumption based on actual data instead of estimated information from manufacturers.

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Today, construction project energy consumption and CO2 emission estimates are typically based on data from manufacturer manuals and fact sheets. But these estimates can be inaccurate due to the large number of energy-consuming and CO2 emitting sources present on a construction site.

“In order to comply with construction standards for energy consumption and CO2 emissions, the total emissions and consumption of a building are currently calculated based on figures provided in manuals and fact sheets from manufacturers of various machines, tools, lighting and other necessities on site. However, such estimates are inaccurate due to the large number of energy consuming and CO2 emitting sources and the lack of actual historical data,” explains Assistant Professor Jhonattan Martinez Ribon, who leads the project, on the Aarhus University website.

To improve the accuracy of these measurements, the project introduces a network of IoT sensors that will collect data in real time. These sensors will measure various parameters, such as machine position, efficiency and idle time, giving a more accurate picture of overall energy consumption and emissions.

From earthworks to comprehensive site data

The project, called “Predictive carbon emissions monitoring and control system for earthwork and interior work using simulation and remote sensing technologies,” is developed in collaboration with Danish IT companies Clevertrack ApS and Acembee ApS. According to Jhonattan Martinez Ribon, the project is the first in a series and initially focuses on earthwork and interior work on construction sites.

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“Energy consumption and CO2 emissions are just one concern. We can also use sensors to measure, for example, worker wellbeing or a wide range of other variables that together aim to improve construction,” he says.

The 18-month project has a total budget of DKK 2 million, of which one million has been granted by We Build Denmark. The goal is to reach a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5, which means that the technology will be tested and validated in both laboratory and building scenarios. The project is expected to provide valuable insights into the development of emission monitoring and control systems that can help reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.