State-of-the-Art Review of CO2 Demand Controlled Ventilation Technology and Application

Published

July 1, 2001

Author(s)

Steven J. Emmerich, Andrew K. Persily

Abstract

The control of outdoor air intake rates in mechanically ventilated buildings based on indoor carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels, often referred to as CO₂ demand controlled ventilation (DCV), has the potential for reducing the energy consumption associated with building ventilation in some commercial and institutional buildings. CO₂ DCV has been discussed, promoted, studied and demonstrated for the last twenty years, but questions remain regarding the actual energy savings potential as a function of climate, ventilation system type and control and building occupancy, as well as the indoor air quality (IAQ) impacts of the approach and the best way to implement CO₂ DCV in general and in a given building. This report presents a state-of-the-art review of CO₂ DCV technology and application including discussion of the concept and its application, and a literature review. In addition the regulatory and standard requirements impacting CO₂ DCV are also examined. Finally, the relationship of this technology to the four key issues identified in the California Energy Commission (CEC) Request for Proposal No. 400-99-401 is also discussed.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 6729

Report Number

6729

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

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Keywords

carbon dioxide, control, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, ventilation

Citation

Emmerich, S. and Persily, A. (2001), State-of-the-Art Review of CO₂ Demand Controlled Ventilation Technology and Application, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=860846 (Accessed May 9, 2026)

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