Occupancy-Based HVAC Controls

Department
Office of Sustainability

Overview
The university connected its classroom scheduling system to the building's heating and cooling controls so that HVAC systems automatically respond when rooms are in use. Instead of operating on fixed schedules, classrooms are heated or cooled only when classes are scheduled, reducing unnecessary energy use. A pilot of this technology was successfully completed in the Javits Lecture Center.

Key Highlights

• Heating and cooling automatically adjust based on classroom schedules.
• Reduces energy use when classrooms are unoccupied.
• Pilot project successfully completed in the Javits Lecture Center.

Impact
Heating and cooling systems are some of the largest energy users on campus. By automatically matching HVAC operation to actual classroom schedules, the university reduces energy consumption, lowers operating costs, and decreases unnecessary wear on equipment while maintaining comfort for students and faculty.

Completed Spring 2026

Project Contacts
Tom Lanzilotta - tom.lanzilotta@stonybrook.edu

Christian Guzman - christian.guzman@stonybrook.edu