Occupant-centric control in buildings: Investigating occupant intentions and preferences for indoor environment and grid flexibility interactions

Occupant-centric control (OCC) systems have recently gained attention as they fulfill the energy efficiency goals of buildings while prioritizing occupant comfort and well-being. However, many studies overlook the core principle of focusing on occupants and their preferences. Instead, they assume seamless interaction between individuals and advanced controls reliant on occupant data. This study investigates occupant preferences in control systems, including control access, automation level preferences, interface design, and data sharing. Furthermore, it assesses occupant willingness to interact with OCC by sharing data as feedback for indoor environment control and grid flexibility purposes. This study is based on a survey conducted in six educational buildings involving 959 respondents with varying levels of technical knowledge. The method includes a wellestablished behavioral science theory called the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Structural equation modeling with SmartPLS statistical software was used for data analysis. The study reveals that 55.6% of occupants are willing to interact with OCC by sharing data. The key influences are occupants' attitudes, social norms, ease of use, and user trust. The proposed behavioral models predict user interaction with OCC with moderate prediction, with R2 values reaching 63.9%, which is satisfactory in behavioral sciences. The results also show a correlation between willingness to interact with OCC and engagement in grid flexibility. These findings are important for OCC designers and building control practitioners who aim to prioritize occupant needs and preferences. The behavioral prediction models present a tool for assessing occupant data sharing inclination, thereby helping to prevent data shortages.