buildings

Review
Digital Twins for Intelligent Green Buildings
Bin Yang 1,2, *, Zhihan Lv 3 and Faming Wang 4

1 School of Energy and Safety Engineering, Tianjin Chengjian University, Tianjin 300384, China
2 School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology,
Xi’an 710055, China
3 Department of Game Design, Faculty of Arts, Uppsala University, SE-62167 Uppsala, Sweden;
[email protected]
4 Division Animal and Human Health Engineering, Department of Biosystems (BIOSYST), KU Leuven,
Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, BE-3001 Leuven, Belgium; [email protected]
* Correspondence: [email protected] or [email protected]

Abstract: At present, the integration of green building, the intelligent building industry and high-
quality development are facing a series of new opportunities and challenges. This review aims to
analyze the digital development of smart green buildings to make it easier to create contiguous
ecological development areas in green ecological cities. It sorts out the main contents of Intelligent
Green Buildings (IGB) and summarizes the application and role of Digital Twins (DTs) in intelligent
buildings. Firstly, the basic connotations and development direction of IGB are deeply discussed,
and the current realization and applications of IGB are analyzed. Then, the advantages of DTs are
further investigated in the context of IGB for DT smart cities. Finally, the development trends and
challenges of IGB are analyzed. After a review and research, it is found that the realization and
application of IGB have been implemented, but the application of DTs remains not quite integrated
into the design of IGB. Therefore, a forward-looking design is required when designing the IGBs,
such as prioritizing sustainable development, people’s livelihoods and green structures. At the same
time, an IGB can only show its significance after the basic process of building the application layer is
performed correctly. Therefore, this review contributes to the proper integration of IGB and urban
Citation: Yang, B.; Lv, Z.; Wang, F. development strategies, which are crucial to encouraging the long-term development of cities, thus
Digital Twins for Intelligent Green
providing a theoretical basis and practical experience for promoting the development of smart cities.
Buildings. Buildings 2022, 12, 856.
https://doi.org/10.3390/
Keywords: Intelligent Green Building; Digital Twins; smart city; information interaction; real-time
buildings12060856
visualization
Academic Editor: Osama
Abudayyeh

Received: 17 April 2022

1. Introduction
Accepted: 16 June 2022
Published: 19 June 2022
Intelligent Green Building (IGB) has progressed from environmental idealism to a
business case with strong industry growth and long-term business opportunities over the
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
last two decades [1]. IGB projects are gaining popularity among architects, engineers and
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
owners. Climate, environment, resources, economy and culture should all be considered
published maps and institutional affil-
when deciding where to build, and its index system includes categories such as safety
iations.
and durability, health and comfort, convenient life, resource conservation and livable envi-
ronment [2–4]. Green building encompasses many aspects of living, such as temperature,
sunlight, light source, voice control and air, all of which require scientific and technological
Copyright: © 2022 by the authors.
support. Green buildings, as opposed to conventional buildings, should incorporate green
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. concepts into all aspects of construction, including design, research and development,
This article is an open access article building materials, sales, construction, operation and maintenance, and they should form
distributed under the terms and a closed-loop construction industry chain [5,6]. To build such a green industrial system
conditions of the Creative Commons and reduce carbon emissions, scientific and technological innovation must be combined
Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// and infiltrated into all links; therefore, digital and energy innovation can be combined and
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ infiltrated into all links. Promoting energy-saving building transformations, carrying out
4.0/). urban heating system transformations, vigorously developing green building materials

Buildings 2022, 12, 856. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12060856 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/buildings

Buildings 2022, 12, 856 2 of 20

and promoting building industrialization are key elements for the construction industry to
achieve carbon neutrality [7–9].
At present, the integration of green construction and the intelligent building industry,
as well as high-quality development, are confronted with a slew of new opportunities and
challenges. More and more new things are emerging, such as new infrastructure, new
driving forces, new industries and new models, which bring more market space to the
construction industry and put forward higher requirements for strengthening and playing
a larger role in the construction industry [10,11]. Intelligent building energy saving is
a new science that is part of the green energy-saving building branch, and the original
professional division of labor is different. Many professional areas, such as architecture,
construction, heating and ventilation, are included in smart architecture, which is formed
by the intersection and combination of many professional disciplines [12–14]. The analysis
and evaluation of intelligent buildings should follow the green building energy-saving
principle. Various management systems of intelligent buildings are systematically designed
based on the building energy-saving design, from optimization to the control of technical
measures. Driven by the environment and energy conservation, intelligent buildings
use buildings as platforms and actively promote the progression of building platforms
to green environmental protection and ecological balance [15]. The connotations and
technical means of intelligent building are constantly expanding in these fields. At present,
the construction industry’s unavoidable progression trend includes green concepts and
intelligent means. As a result, intelligent building planning and design must be based
on green concepts and related methods, and intelligent technologies should also be used
for supervision and control in green buildings [16,17]. Relevant standards have been
established, and intelligent technology is required for green building, thus providing strong
support for green building performance improvement.
In IGB, computerization and digitization have a significant impact on how physi-
cal/engineering assets are managed throughout their life cycles. In the operation and
maintenance stage, the realization of a comfortable living environment and intelligent
building management is a complex issue that not only necessitates comprehensive in-
formation, such as historical operation, maintenance records, facility performance and
accurate location, but it also involves multiple stakeholders. During the operation and
maintenance phase, the asset management process must maintain integrity, effectiveness
and interoperability. To maintain dynamic information, support activities and create a
comfortable environment, an effective and intelligent asset management system is required.
To improve operations management, various tools are used, including a computerized
maintenance management system, a computer-aided facilities management system, a build-
ing automation system and an integrated workplace management system. However, facility
management professionals continue to expend significant effort and time extracting the
various operations and maintenance (O and M) data they require [18–20]. As a result,
there is still a lack of an integrated system to manage information distributed across mul-
tiple databases and to support the various activities in the operation and maintenance
phases. Digital Twins (DTs) are widely promoted as a digital model that both represents
assets dynamically and mimics real-world behavior [21,22]. DTs are data-driven, which
necessitates a well-defined and well-organized system architecture to oversee its concrete
implementation, constantly identify gaps with the real world and provide a path for future
trends.
To summarize, DTs have become an important component of new infrastructure, and
the wave of new infrastructure also encourages the emergence of DT cities. The physical
world’s infrastructure is transformed into an intelligent form in the core series of data
elements, and the digital world forms a new form with DTs as traction. Green buildings
have become the mainstay of realizing this vision, with the goal of “dual carbon” and
the gradual advancement of smart cities. Therefore, exploring the intelligent and digital
development of IGBs is of great practical significance to the progress of social, economic
and environmental intelligence. In the field of green building, invisible innovation creates
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 3 of 20

a new ecosphere within the DTs of architecture. The key contents of IGB are sorted out,
and the application and value of DTs in intelligent buildings are summarized, providing a
theoretical foundation and practical experience for promoting smart city progression. The
overall structure of this review is as follows:
â Section 1 introduces the development status and trend of the core word involved,
green building, and mentions the advantages of the combination of DTs and IGB.
â Section 2 conducts a specific overview and analysis of the intelligent application,
realization and trend of IGB.
â Section 3 discusses development research on the integration of IGB and DTs.
â Section 4 summarizes and studies the subsequent development advantages and
challenges of IGB, making their advantages and problems more prominent.
â Section 5 is the conclusion. It summarizes this review, highlights the results of this
research and further understands the deficiencies and follow-up prospects.

2. Intelligent Development of Green Building

The core of green building advocates for energy saving and low carbon emissions
throughout the building’s life cycle, as well as human-centered and harmonious coexistence
with nature. Green building development and construction is not only an important way
to save energy and reduce emissions in cities, but it is also an unavoidable choice for
implementing sustainable development. The carbon dioxide emission reduction effect
of green buildings with different logo types and stars, on the other hand, varies. Green
building has grown rapidly over the last decade, and the number of projects with green
building evaluation marks has also increased dramatically. However, it should not be
overlooked that there are still issues such as unbalanced regional development, insufficient
technical requirement implementation and an imperfect market promotion mechanism in
the process of green building development. The key is to encourage the development of
green and ecological urban areas, to create contiguous green building development areas
and to encourage the large-scale progression of high-level green buildings.

2.1. Content and Adoption of Green Building

2.1.1. Content and Development of Green Building
Green building has become a hot topic all over the world as a representative of building
energy conservation. Green building exploration and research on a global scale began
in the 1960s. Paolo Solerui, an Italian–American architect, was the first to propose the
new concept of arcology [23]. Thermal comfort is prioritized, passive design is prioritized
and renewable energy is maximized, resulting in lower energy consumption. In 1991,
Brenda and Robert Weil proposed the definition of green building for the first time. In
contrast to Paul Solerui’s arcology, Brenda Weir and Robert Weir’s green building concept
takes climate, environment and energy into overall consideration in the architectural
design [24–26]. Green building evaluation is a revolution and enlightenment movement
in the field of architecture, and its significance extends far beyond energy saving. It is
innovative and organically integrated from multiple perspectives, resulting in a building
that is in harmony with nature, that maximizes resource and energy use and that creates a
healthy, comfortable and beautiful living space. Its revolutionary impact on architecture is
examined from the perspectives of technology, society and the economy. The sustainability
dimensions of green buildings are shown in Figure 1.
As shown in Figure 1, the sustainability dimensions of IGB are mainly reflected in
energy efficiency, land efficiency, indoor environment improvement, waste management
efficiency, power generation efficiency, management efficiency, the sustainability of green
buildings, greenhouse gas reduction, design efficiency, material efficiency and resource
efficiency. Early green building research was primarily focused on single technical issues,
and technical means were isolated and one-sided, with no organic body. The consciousness
of integrated design and economic research is far from divorced from economic analysis,
and it is only the cognitive stage attached to strategy research [27]. However, the early
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 4 of 20

results of single technology research have laid a solid foundation for the multidimensional
progression and system integration of contemporary green building. The advancement and
deepening of green building strategies are carried out in various fields such as materials,
equipment and morphology. With the advancement of technology, the integration of
technology and other design elements has begun to shift from simple superposition in
the past, focusing more on the design of the envelope itself, to an organic combination of
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 4 of 21
technology and the overall system of the building, gradually becoming a green building
system [28–30].

Energy efficiency
Land
Indoor environment
efficiency
improvement

Waste management Energy generation

efficiency efficiency

Management
Sustainability of green Reduction in
efficiency
buildings green house gases

Design efficiency
Material efficiency
Resource efficiency
Sustainabilitydimensions
Figure1.1.Sustainability
Figure dimensionsofofgreen
greenbuildings
buildings(Source:
(Source:the
theauthors).
authors).

When
As shownan IGB is designed,
in Figure the architect’s
1, the sustainability task is notof
dimensions only
IGBtoare
add visualreflected
mainly pleasureinto
artifacts. To build sustainable architecture that adheres to social
energy efficiency, land efficiency, indoor environment improvement, waste managementprogress, the visual design
process must be based on environmental regeneration and human health.
efficiency, power generation efficiency, management efficiency, the sustainability of green There are many
studies on the sustainable design of IGB. According to Plageras
buildings, greenhouse gas reduction, design efficiency, material efficiency and resource et al., (2018) [31], it is
critical to Early
efficiency. ensure that building
green buildingsresearch
are greenwasand sustainable
primarily focusedin order to build
on single technicala green and
issues,
sustainable city. Green building refers to the application of green
and technical means were isolated and one-sided, with no organic body. The conscious- technologies throughout
a building’s
ness life cycle,
of integrated design i.e.,and
reducing
economic waste through
research the from
is far use ofdivorced
sustainable
frombuilding
economic materials
anal-
and recycling them from construction to operation to demolition. In
ysis, and it is only the cognitive stage attached to strategy research [27]. However, theaddition to sustainable
materials,
early energy
results consumption
of single technology control andhave
research CO2 laid
reduction
a solidare importantfor
foundation factors for green
the multidi-
buildings [32–34]. If properly implemented, energy-efficient
mensional progression and system integration of contemporary green building. The ad- windows, heat and cold
regulators, insulation systems, ventilation systems, efficient pumps,
vancement and deepening of green building strategies are carried out in various fields smart meters and
smart
such asmanagement systems and
materials, equipment can reduce energyWith
morphology. consumption by 50%.ofGreening
the advancement technology, requires
the
the efficient design of energy systems. Natural light can be
integration of technology and other design elements has begun to shift from simple used efficiently to reduce
su-
electricity costs
perposition in the while
past,also improving
focusing more onpeople’s health
the design ofand
the productivity.
envelope itself, Green
to anbuildings,
organic
according to of
combination Sutechnology
et al., (2021)and[35],the
canoverall
use low-energy
system ofappliances
the building,andgradually
energy-saving lighting.
becoming a
Passive solar design is
green building system [28–30]. used to heat, cool and light homes without the use of electricity
When an IGB is designed, the architect’s task is not only to add visual pleasure to
artifacts. To build sustainable architecture that adheres to social progress, the visual de-
sign process must be based on environmental regeneration and human health. There are
many studies on the sustainable design of IGB. According to Plageras et al. (2018) [31], it
 for green buildings [32–34]. If properly implemented, energy-efficient windows, heat and
cold regulators, insulation systems, ventilation systems, efficient pumps, smart meters
and smart management systems can reduce energy consumption by 50%. Greening re-
quires the efficient design of energy systems. Natural light can be used efficiently to re-
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 duce electricity costs while also improving people’s health and productivity. Green build-
5 of 20
ings, according to Su et al. (2021) [35], can use low-energy appliances and energy-saving
lighting. Passive solar design is used to heat, cool and light homes without the use of
electricity or mechanical
or mechanical devices.
devices. The The
design design elements
elements of asolar
of a passive passive solar building
building are de-
are depicted in
picted in
Figure 2. Figure 2.

Summer
sun

Control
Winter Distribution
sun

Absorber

Thermal
Aperture mass

Figure 2. Design elements of passive solar buildings (Source: the authors).

As demonstrated
As demonstrated in in Figure
Figure 2, 2, as
as part
part of
of the
the building’s
building’s green
green design,
design, windows
windows and and
skylights are arranged with elements such as sunshades, panels and heat absorbers to
skylights are arranged with elements such as sunshades, panels and heat absorbers to
capture and
capture and distribute
distributenatural
naturalheatheatand andlight. Passive
light. Passivesolar heating
solar heatingworks
worksby capturing the
by capturing
heatheat
the of the
of sun andand
the sun storing it forit use
storing when
for use the sun
when is not
the sun is shining on the
not shining on building.
the building.
Architectural design should account for space utilization as
Architectural design should account for space utilization as well. According well. According to to Bano
Bano
and Sehgal (2018) [36], an open-plan raised floor system and a reduction
and Sehgal (2018) [36], an open-plan raised floor system and a reduction in building height in building height
are two effective ways to use space that can help make the building greener. Furthermore,
are two effective ways to use space that can help make the building greener. Furthermore,
the open spaces aid in good air circulation and light transmission, resolving heating
the open spaces aid in good air circulation and light transmission, resolving heating and
and lighting issues and reducing the building’s reliance on air conditioning and lighting.
lighting issues and reducing the building’s reliance on air conditioning and lighting. Ac-
According to Nguyen et al., (2017) [37], green building can improve building efficiency
cording to Nguyen et al. (2017) [37], green building can improve building efficiency while
while also reducing the negative environmental impact of the construction industry through
also reducing the negative environmental impact of the construction industry through
recycling. Green buildings, as an architectural innovation, face numerous challenges in
recycling. Green buildings, as an architectural innovation, face numerous challenges in
entering the market, which is occupied by traditional buildings. The first is saving for the
entering the market, which is occupied by traditional buildings. The first is saving for the
building, which refers to total savings over the entire life cycle. Saving materials, water,
building, which refers to total savings over the entire life cycle. Saving materials, water,
electricity and gas are common concerns; however, saving land and capital should also
electricity and gas are common concerns; however, saving land and capital should also be
be considered. According to Cecchini et al., (2019) [38], land conservation is the most
considered. According to Cecchini et al. (2019) [38], land conservation is the most im-
important thing in a city. Only with land can roads, parking, landscaping and squares
portant
be built thing in athe
to make city.
cityOnly
more with land can roads,
comfortable parking,
and livable. landscaping
Saving money isand squares
also be
essential.
built to make the city more comfortable and livable. Saving money
A virtuous business model can only be created by spending less money, serving more is also essential. A
virtuous business model can only be created by spending less money,
people and creating more value. According to Fan and Xia (2018) [39], efficiency and saving serving more peo-
ple
are and creating more
complementary, value.
and one According to Fan and
of the fundamental Xia (2018)
goals of green [39], efficiency
building and
is to saving
maintain
are complementary, and one of the fundamental goals of green building
high efficiency over a long term. Efficiency must lead to economic growth. For example, is to maintain
high efficiency
if existing over a longlamps
energy-saving term. Efficiency
for indoormust leadare
lighting to economic
replaced withgrowth. For the
LEDs, example,
same
if
lighting can have much lower power and high electricity efficiency, thus saving a light-
existing energy-saving lamps for indoor lighting are replaced with LEDs, the same lot of
electricity. At the moment, the efficiency of green buildings is challenged by two issues.
First, most efficient systems and equipment have higher initial investment costs and are
more technically complex than existing conventional practices, making them difficult to
promote and accept during construction. Second, building system efficiency necessitates a
high level of maintenance management. Most buildings’ maintenance and management
levels are currently low, and the efficiency of many systems and equipment is difficult to
demonstrate.
As a result, the above studies suggest that achieving high efficiency is difficult and
necessitates breakthroughs in scientific and technological innovation [40–42]. The establish-
ment of a green building evaluation system is an unavoidable result of green building’s
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 6 of 20

gradual improvement and systematization. It integrates green building organically, allow-

ing green building, information, computers and many other disciplines to coexist on a
unified platform [43–46]. The evolution of a comprehensive evaluation system provides
designers, planners, engineers and managers with an easier and more regulated green
building evaluation tool and design guide than ever before.

2.1.2. Concrete Adoption of Green Building

At present, some IGBs have been launched, such as solar buildings in Chicago, many
solar-panel-powered buildings near Tower Bridge in London and solar homes in Harvard,
Massachusetts, as follows:
There is a magnificent eco-building in Chicago. There are no brick walls or panels, but
plants were planted to divide each room where the walls should be. This type of wall is
known as a green wall, and this type of building is known as a plant building. According
to Chandrika et al., (2019) [47], the tracking device on the facade of a solar building has
multiple circular solar collectors. Throughout the day, it can rotate in the direction of the sun,
increasing the power generated by the solar panels attached to the tracking device by 40%.
Even the wind pressure experienced by solar panels can be converted into clean energy.
Building integration design refers to solar houses in which semiconductor solar cells, which
convert solar energy into electricity, are embedded directly in walls and roofs rather than
having bulky equipment mounted on roofs to collect solar energy [48,49]. T.R. Hamzah and
Yeang Sdn Bhd, internationally renowned ecological architects, designed the Singapore
Ecological Design in the Tropics (EDITT) building. Its design, which won a tropical eco-
architecture competition, is located in Singapore at the intersection of Waterloo and Middle
Roads. The EDITT is an eco-building that meets the client’s needs for retail space, exhibition
space, an auditorium and a variety of other environmentally friendly features. The plant-
covered skyscraper can increase biodiversity, restoring the local ecosystem and increasing
greenery. The ratio of green space to living space is one-to-one. One of the most important
aspects of organic design is observing plant habits in surrounding buildings to ensure that
the chosen plants coexist harmoniously with the building and do not compete with native
plants. The green space stretches from the street entrance to the roof, combining with
the 26-story EDITT tower to create a one-of-a-kind ground-level landscape. The activity
of the street shops and the surrounding pedestrians enhances this extension from a flat
space to a vertical space. With respect to the environment and energy savings, it has an
855-square-meter solar panel area that can provide 39.7 percent of the building’s energy.
Second, it has biogas production equipment, which produces gas and fertilizer through
bacterial action and is used for lighting and plant fertilization. Third, its building materials
are largely recycled, and each floor has a resource recovery system, making it the building
with the highest level of environmental protection and greening [50–52].
There are numerous new designs in the vicinity of the famous Tower Bridge. The most
recent is the vertical farm, which uses two tall towers to capture solar energy to power
Tower Bridge. Plants grown in the tower are available for sale at London Bridge Market.
The Dubai Tower is not entirely powered by solar energy, which is only a theoretical goal.
According to Kumar et al., (2020) [53], the vertical farm is unique because the bottom is
covered with solar panels, and the tower is flat and angled to reduce sunlight penetration
below. The tower houses people, whereas the underground houses cinemas, restaurants
and shops. Three massive 225-kilowatt wind turbines generate massive amounts of energy
in the design. Furthermore, the south-facing facade is covered with 4000 photovoltaic
panels, which effectively absorb the desert’s endless sunlight.
Jenson-DeLeeuw is a gorgeous 2200-square-foot home in Harvard, Massachusetts.
Renewable energy is generated to power electric vehicles and to meet the energy needs of
homes. It is built on a gently sloping site to maximize solar energy for its solar panels and
interior spaces. It produces 21,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. Extra energy is
saved in two 16 kWh batteries. The solar panel and battery power three branches, which
provide heating and cooling as required. The battery system, which is monitored on a daily
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 7 of 20

basis, can store energy for use at night and in inclement weather. The house generates 23%
more energy than it requires. This provides owners with a large amount of reserve energy
at a low cost.

2.2. The Intelligence of Green Building

Smart ecological cities represent an opportunity for the intelligent building industry, as
competition in the intelligent building industry is fierce right now. A smart ecological city
represents an opportunity for the intelligent building industry’s future advancement. Many
scholars have applied artificial intelligence technology to the research of green building.
According to Eze et al., (2021) [54], many green construction technologies, such as solar
power generation and water source heat pumps, are required under green evaluation
standards. In addition, because these contents are indeed unbearable for small buildings
with respect to construction and operation costs, the realization of key technology value for
energy conservation and environmental protection must be specialized. Green building is
limited and restricted. To achieve sustainable development, it must be viewed through the
lens of an ecological city. Green building should be prioritized above the city, and green
ecological cities are an unavoidable trend of green building. Singh et al., (2020) [55] define
a smart city as having “information communication infrastructure, information application
basic system, intelligent building, and smart industry.” In addition to these, a smart city
operation guarantee system is required, and these smart cities cannot be sustainable without
these mechanisms and institutions. The concept of intelligent buildings advances the goal
of green building by reducing hazards. Building management is made more sustainable and
cost effective by combining intelligent building technology and analytics with advanced
digital services. According to Almeida et al., (2020) [56], the most advanced IGB primarily
employs sensors for the automatic control of lighting, air quality and climate, as well as
intelligent instruments and energy management systems, allowing intelligent buildings to
achieve intelligent energy control. Finally, efficient energy distribution between buildings is
realized, transforming the entire city into a sustainable and energy-saving city. According to
Yu and Zhang (2021) [57], the principle of reduce, reuse, and recycle (3Rs) refers to actively
participating in the design, construction and operation of intelligent buildings; therefore,
they are more likely to be green. Intelligent buildings necessitate more computing power
because they contain many complex heterogeneous subsystems. Intelligent buildings can
increase their computing power by incorporating technologies such as cloud computing,
fog computing, etc.
Based on the above studies, it can be found that the emergence of the Internet of
Things (IoT) not only reduces our burden of life, but it also facilitates the construction of
intelligent buildings. In the field of the IoT, the use of IoT devices, such as smart phones
and various sensors, improves the experience of intelligent buildings while also increasing
power consumption and costs, such as electronic product radiation and growing carbon
footprints [58–60]. As a result, intelligent buildings must be more environmentally green,
which is why IGB exists. IGB aims to protect the environment by implementing energy
efficiency and intelligent design, as well as to provide an ideal climate environment that
can adapt to the various activities and demands of users. Intelligent green building design
has now become a critical component in preserving natural sustainability and protecting
non-renewable resources.
The rapid development of information and communication technology and the Inter-
net of Things in IGB require the mass production of related supporting equipment, which
consumes a lot of resources, especially electricity, thereby increasing the carbon footprint.
To ensure environmental sustainability, reduce our carbon footprint and combat global
warming, we must pay close attention to reducing electricity consumption, greenhouse
gas emissions and e-waste. Many scholars have applied intelligent technology in IGBs.
According to Jin et al., (2021) [61], intelligent buildings provide maximum comfort and
achieve smooth coordination between existing heterogeneous systems, allowing for easy
control, coordination and management. Intelligent buildings can be green by utilizing
 which consumes a lot of resources, especially electricity, thereby increasing the carbon
footprint. To ensure environmental sustainability, reduce our carbon footprint and com-
bat global warming, we must pay close attention to reducing electricity consumption,
greenhouse gas emissions and e-waste. Many scholars have applied intelligent technology
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 in IGBs. According to Jin et al. (2021) [61], intelligent buildings provide maximum comfort 8 of 20
and achieve smooth coordination between existing heterogeneous systems, allowing for
easy control, coordination and management. Intelligent buildings can be green by utiliz-
ing environmentally friendly building materials, deploying alternative energy sources,
environmentally friendly building materials, deploying alternative energy sources, op-
optimizing energy use and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. An IGB is linked to the
timizing energy use and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. An IGB is linked to the
complex external environment because the weather has a large impact on the activity of
complex external environment because the weather has a large impact on the activity of
such buildings. According to Prada et al. (2020) [62], energy consumption is a critical fac-
such buildings. According to Prada et al., (2020) [62], energy consumption is a critical
tor in greening, and the intellectualization of buildings should ensure the optimization of
factor in greening, and the intellectualization of buildings should ensure the optimization
energy consumption in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. IGBs can be used as
of energy consumption in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. IGBs can be used as
nodes for
nodes for renewable
renewable energy
energy generation
generation centers,
centers, distributing
distributing excess
excess energy
energy generated
generated by by
microgrids and
microgrids and smart
smart grids.
grids.
In summary, when intelligenttechnology
In summary, when intelligent technologyisisapplied
appliedtoto
thethe sustainable
sustainable development
development of
of green construction, intelligent buildings employ sensors, actuators and microchips
green construction, intelligent buildings employ sensors, actuators and microchips to create to
create a network of intelligent and adaptive software that provides occupants
a network of intelligent and adaptive software that provides occupants with a responsive with a re-
sponsive environment
environment that makes that
lifemakes
easier life
andeasier and smoother
smoother [63,64]. Many[63,64]. Manydeployed
sensors sensors de-on
ployed ondevices
different different devices insubsystems
in different different subsystems generate
generate massive massiveofamounts
amounts of data,
data, which are
which are
sensed by sensed by cloud computing
cloud computing platforms,platforms,
and expertand expert solutions
solutions are provided
are provided via machine via
machine learning. Figure 3 depicts the architecture of an IGB’s heating, ventilation
learning. Figure 3 depicts the architecture of an IGB’s heating, ventilation and cooling and
cooling systems.
systems.

Use
Air ventilation shafts
Exhaust Fans
Blowers
Fans
Window opening / closing
Air ducts Air filters Air Ventilation
Input
Air Quality
Temperature
Information and Data Mobility
communication
Heating System
Air Conditioning
Solar Electrical
Heating and Cooling
Air Conditioning

Cooling System

Figure 3.
Figure 3. Architecture of heating,
heating, ventilation and cooling
cooling systems
systems for
for intelligent
intelligent green
green buildings
buildings
(Source: the authors).
(Source: the authors).

As shown
As shownininFigure
Figure3, 3,
in in
anan
IGBIGB system,
system, the smart
the smart grid grid
is an is an important
important part ofpart of it,
it, which
which obtains
obtains electricity
electricity from various
from various sourcessources and distributes
and distributes it withinitthe
within the building
building as needed. as
Smart grids draw power from a variety of sources, including conventional power lines,
by utilizing natural resources such as wind and solar power. Smart grids are in charge of
balancing electricity from various sources, such as wind turbines and solar panels. The
smart grid exchanges data with the cloud service primarily based on input parameters such
as temperature, air quality, mobility and brightness captured by sensors installed in and
around the building. The final decision on which device to run the fans, air conditioners,
lights, elevators and other equipment is made based on the input data. Yu et al., (2020) [65]
proposed that communication technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) are the two
pillars of intelligent building. Intelligent standards are achieved by connecting sensors and
control systems to lighting, electricity meters, water meters, pumps, heating, fire alarms,
refrigeration equipment, elevators, access control systems and shading systems. According
to Global Market Research Consulting, the global intelligent building market is expected
to grow from 5.37 billion USD to 24.73 billion USD by 2021. According to Panteli et al.,
(2020) [66], the environmental benefits of intelligent buildings include the conservation
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 9 of 20

of natural resources, reductions in waste generated by buildings and the preservation of

ecosystems. Greenhouse gas emissions are the most significant pollutant emitted during
building construction and operation, and the primary source is the combustion of fossil
fuels and coal. As a result, when compared to non-green buildings, smart patterns in green
buildings reduce electricity consumption by 30%. The use of IGB has greatly reduced the
negative effects of global warming. Smarter use of green building components can increase
worker productivity, and green building materials can also improve people’s health.

2.3. Realization and Adoption of Intelligent Green Building

The field of intelligent buildings has been paying increasing attention to green de-
velopment, and the coordination of buildings and their surroundings is fully considered
during the construction process. Energy-efficient and environmentally green buildings
have become an unavoidable trend in building development [67–69]. There are many intel-
ligent green buildings all over the world right now. The Siemens Crystal Tower in London
is 6300 square meters in size. It can save 50% of its electricity and reduce CO2 emissions
by 65%, making it a model of high energy efficiency. The Crystal Tower’s heating and
cooling needs are met by renewable energy. The roof also includes a photovoltaic model
for green electricity generation and a rainwater collection model for recycling rainwater.
It is necessary to collect information in various fields such as the environment and
buildings during the IGB construction process in order to create favorable conditions for
the control and management of green buildings. According to Bibri et al., (2020) [70],
building control is diverse, and solar energy can be used to provide light and heat while
consuming little energy. Environmental ecology, energy, resources, buildings, security
and communication networks are all part of building management. Green goals must be
achieved through integrated management on a unified platform. The eco-house, which
is located in the city of Tokuoka, has become a model of eco-friendly housing in the area
and is one of 20 eco-house projects funded by the Ministry of Environment. Moisture and
heat can be diffused through the skylight in such a space, making it an air conditioner.
The exterior wall is finished with fire-resistant stucco. Moisture and heat are captured by
interior walls. As a result, the eco-house can draw heat from the sun in the winter and
cool outdoor air at night in the summer to reduce indoor temperatures. The eco-house
incorporates a solar power system that utilizes direct solar heat. The flow of hot air is
controlled by circulation fans. Underfloor heating in the void spaces creates a comfortable
interior environment with high operational efficiency.
According to Zhang et al., (2020) [71], IGB integrates green configuration, natural
ventilation, natural lighting, a low energy consumption envelope, new energy utilization,
green building materials and smart control through scientific overall design. It has the
characteristics of efficient resource utilization and circulation, energy-saving measures
and a healthy environment. The Phipps Sustainable Landscape Center in Pittsburgh,
USA, systematically demonstrates advanced technologies in landscape design, energy
efficiency, indoor environmental quality and material conservation. All waste and storm
water on the site can be effectively treated within its own boundaries as a result of green
infrastructure. When designing the appearance and structure of the center, the designers
used natural lighting whenever possible to reduce power consumption. The building’s
interior is outfitted with a geothermal system that can be adjusted to an appropriate room
temperature based on temperature changes in the four seasons. It not only improves
people’s indoor comfort, but it also significantly reduces energy consumption caused by
indoor heating and cooling.
An analysis of the current situation of IGB construction by the above-mentioned
relevant scholars reveals that greening requires the establishment of environmental, en-
ergy, resource, ecology, security and other monitoring and management systems. The
achievement of these objectives is inextricably linked to the category of intelligent building.
The implementation of intelligent building systems and the realization of greening are
inseparable and not mutually exclusive. The Bullitt Center in Seattle, billed as the greenest
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 10 of 20

office building, employs biomimetic, or bionic, concepts to create an organic structure

that runs on sunlight and rain. The structure is topped with 575 solar panels, which
generate 232,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. When the sun shines in the summer,
excess power is used to feed power plants and is recycled when it rains. Only the bottom
two floors of the six-story building are made of cement to reduce carbon emissions. The
remainder of the structure is mostly made of wood. Aside from solar energy, the IGB can
also be composted on-site.

3. Intelligent Green Building in a Digital Twin Smart City

A smart city based on DTs is a complex system that balances economic, social and en-
vironmental progress. In this system, technology and nature are fully integrated, allowing
humans to maximize their creativity and productivity while also promoting urban civiliza-
tion and the coordinated sustainable progression of natural and artificial environments.
Green building conserves resources, protects the environment, and reduces pollution while
also providing healthy, applicable, and efficient space and harmoniously coexisting with
nature throughout the building’s entire life cycle. IGB is not only a general architectural
trend for the future, but it is also one of the defining characteristics of a smart city. Cities can
become greener and improve the quality of life of their residents while lowering costs with
the right technology. As a result, IGB has become the cornerstone of smart city construction.

3.1. Digital Twins in Smart Cities

3.1.1. Digital Twin 3D Modeling and Real-Time Visualization
Grieves first formally proposed DTs in 2011 to address NASA aircraft design, operation
and monitoring. Many scholars have conducted research on the 3D modeling of DT
technology. Sepasgozar et al., (2021) [72] proposed using real-time data acquisition and
analysis technology to build a DT system and investigated the feasibility of realizing a
production system with virtual and real fusion via DTs. Strong visual technology and
real-time 3D technology are required to support the DT space. Real 3D, DTs, smart cities
and other concepts have radically altered the architecture industry. Yang et al., (2021) [73]
stated that true 3D is built by transporting structural and semantic geographical entities
that support human–machine compatible understanding and real-time perception of the
IoT on 3D geographical scenes. The digital elevation model, digital surface model, digital
orthophoto, real orthophoto, oblique 3D model and laser point cloud are all examples
of geographic scenes. Geographic entities are composed of basic geographic entities as
well as component 3D models. A basic geographical entity consists of the ground object
entity and the geographical unit, both of which can be expressed in two-dimensional and
three-dimensional forms.
Therefore, a 3D model includes structural building parts, interior building parts, road
facility parts and underground space parts. Other entities include specialized entities
created by other industries. Real-time sensing data of natural resources, urban IoT sensing
data and online Internet capture data are all examples of IoT sensing data. Natural resource
real-time sensing data include real-time videos and images obtained through natural
resource management services, as well as real-time information from automatic monitoring
equipment. Data from urban IoT perception sources include surveillance videos, real-
time images, such as for vehicle navigation, and mobile base stations. Online data are
captured via the internet, including geographic location and text tables. The supporting
environment consists of data acquisition and processing, database building management
and an application service system, as well as the hardware and software infrastructure that
supports the system’s operation. The acquisition processing system acquires, processes and
fuses spatial data volume and IoT sensing data. The data integration database construction
and database management systems are referred to as database construction management
systems. An application service system is a service system that is focused on applications.
The term “hardware and software infrastructure” refers to networks that are autonomous
and controllable, as well as security, storage and computing display devices.
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 11 of 20

Similarly, the real-time visualization feature of DT technology has attracted the atten-
tion of many scholars. According to Perc and Topolek (2020) [74], when using scanners to
collect data, multi-directional and multi-site data should be collected. As a result, point
cloud data from multiple sites distributed in different local coordinate systems are gen-
erated independently. The most effective method for data splicing for point cloud data
obtained from different sites is object-based registration. Shi et al., (2020) [75] proposed
that, in the registration process, target fitting modelling for the target in the two adjacent
stations should be performed first, the coordinates of the center point should be solved and
target pairs should be formed after the target numbering is completed. The target pair is
used to solve all the conversion parameters needed for adjacent site registration, and the
point cloud data registration of two adjacent sites is completed by rotation, translation and
scaling. In Revit, the elevation function is used to slice point cloud data into layers, and the
specific shape and height of each physical object in the model are determined to build the
corresponding model. According to Wang et al., (2021) [76], real-time visualization technol-
ogy for DTs is essentially a real-time connection formed between the multidimensional data
of the physical world and the virtual Digital Twin, in order to realize dynamic mapping
between the two. Since the dynamic behavior of various models and physical entities in the
virtual scene is consistent, users can master all physical world trends in real-time in the DT
system. The parameters of various devices are collected by sensors with the help of the IoT,
and the data are stored in real-time in the corresponding database. According to Jiang et al.,
(2021) [77], DTs emphasize simulation, modelling, analysis and auxiliary decision making,
focusing on the reproduction, analysis and decision making of physical world objects in
the data world, whereas visualization is the true reproduction and decision support of the
physical world. A business decision model is established through data visualization based
on its own massive data information, which can evaluate the development status of current
transactions and can diagnose problems in the past. Furthermore, it can forecast future
trends, providing managers with a comprehensive and accurate decision-making basis.
In summary, in the visualization-related research of DT technology, non-contact high-
speed laser measurement is used in 3D laser scanning to obtain geometric data and image
data of terrain or complex objects [78,79]. Post-processing software is used to process and
analyze the collected point cloud and image data in order to convert them into 3D space
coordinates in the absolute coordinate system or to create 3D visual models of irregular
scenes with complex structures. As the data source of a spatial database, point clouds can
also output a variety of different data formats to meet the needs of various applications.

3.1.2. Adoption of Digital Twins in Smart Cities

DTs are currently used in eleven major fields, including environmental protection,
urban management, oil and gas, aerospace, electric power, automobile, health care, railway
transportation, manufacturing, construction and shipping [80–82]. A city-level DT system
based on visualized data can accurately reproduce the management elements of a wide
range of cities in various fields after fully integrating the city’s information resources in
various fields, and it can achieve multi-dimensional visualization analysis of data indicators
in business fields. According to Fan et al., (2020) [83], visual decision systems can effectively
combine artificial intelligence model algorithms such as face recognition, human feature
recognition and vehicle recognition. The main functions of a DT city are shown in Figure 4.
As shown in Figure 4, in urban DTs, the information resources in various fields of the
city and the results of artificial intelligence are visually analyzed to provide intelligent anal-
ysis support for users and better urban operation applications for city managers. Intelligent
construction DTs serve as a link between the digital and physical worlds. Connected sensors
and IoT devices collect real-time data about physical objects. These data are then combined
with context and are processed before being used to comprehend, analyze, operate and op-
timize processes within an intelligent building. Nguyen et al., (2022) [84] proposed that the
evolution of DT cities began with the 3D type in the 1.0 stage, progressing to the perceptive
type in the 2.0 stage and then to the foresight type in the 3.0 stage. With respect to the model,
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 12 of 20

Buildings 2022, 12, 856 12 of 21

data and calculations, the 1.0 stage 3D model is a spatial static model + statistical data +
off-line calculation. The 2.0 stage perception type is a spatial static model + sensing data +
perceptual calculation.
3.1.2. Adoption of DigitalThe 3.0 stage
Twins predictive
in Smart Cities type is a spatial dynamic model + social
data + in-loop computing. Shirowzhan et al., (2020) [85] stated that, with the development
DTs are currently used in eleven major fields, including environmental protection,
and rise of DT cities, urban information models, real 3D city models, urban simulations and
urban management, oil and gas, aerospace, electric power, automobile, health care, rail-
other related concepts and technologies have rapidly developed. Second, the development
way transportation, manufacturing, construction and shipping [80–82]. A city-level DT
of DT cities demonstrates collaborative momentum. The pace of urban interdisciplinary
system based on visualized data can accurately reproduce the management elements of a
simulation and cloud simulation is quickening, and standard specifications and application
wide range of cities in various fields after fully integrating the city’s information resources
scenarios will become DT cities’ driving wheels. DT cities are virtual mapping objects and
in various fields, and it can achieve multi-dimensional visualization analysis of data indi-
intelligent controllers of future physical cities, forming a complex, giant system of virtual
cators in business fields. According to Fan et al. (2020) [83], visual decision systems can
and real correspondence, mutual mapping and collaborative interaction. With respect to
effectively combine artificial intelligence model algorithms such as face recognition, hu-
construction focus, the core is the urban information model based on multi-source data
man feature
fusion. recognition
The premise is theand vehiclefacilities
intelligent recognition. The main system,
and perception functions ofthe
and a DT city areis
guarantee
shown in Figure 4.
the intelligent private network supporting the efficient operation of DT cities.

Ecological governance City management Livelihood services

Digital Twin city

Urban operating system

Feedback

Environmental energy data Urban operation data Traffic data Medical data

Themain
Figure4.4.The
Figure mainfunction
functionofofaaDT
DTcity
city(Source:
(Source:the
theauthors).
authors).

3.2. Integration of Smart Cities and Intelligent Green Building

As shown in Figure 4, in urban DTs, the information resources in various fields of the
Energy consumption, particularly in large cities, is expected to skyrocket by 2050,
city and the results of artificial intelligence are visually analyzed to provide intelligent
according to projections. As a result, smart cities are critical for maintaining a balance
analysis support for users and better urban operation applications for city managers. In-
between supply and demand. Digital transformation promotes urban governance reform
telligent construction DTs serve as a link between the digital and physical worlds. Con-
and can achieve energy conservation and emission reductions throughout the industrial
nected
chain assensors and
well as IoT
life devices
scenes fromcollect real-time
production to data about physical
consumption, whichobjects. These data
is consistent with
are then combined with context and are processed before being used
the goal of carbon-neutral development. Although science and technology are redefining to comprehend, an-
alyze, operate and optimize processes within an intelligent building. Nguyen
cities, when urban construction is optimized through science and technology, the negative et al. (2022)
[84] proposed of
externalities that the evolution
science of DT cities
and technology shouldbegan bewith the 3D type
addressed. in the 1.0 stage,
Digitalization should pro-
be
gressing
regarded as a significant breakthrough in order to realize the green transformation of3.0
to the perceptive type in the 2.0 stage and then to the foresight type in the an
stage.
entireWith respectscholars
city. Many to the model, datafields
in related and calculations,
have studiedthe it. 1.0 stage 3D model is a spatial
static Yigitcanlar
model + statistical data + off-line calculation. The
et al., (2021) [86] believed that the coordinated 2.0 stage development
perception type is a spa-
direction of
tial static model
digitalization + sensing
and greening data + perceptual
is an unavoidable calculation.
trend in the The 3.0 stage
process predictive
of building typecities
smart is a
spatial dynamicgreen
incorporating model + social They
buildings. data +constructed
in-loop computing.
a basic data Shirowzhan
acquisitionetsystem
al. (2020)
from[85]
the
stated that, with the development and rise of DT cities, urban information
standpoint of building hardware facilities, such as an urban smart governance platform. models, real 3D
city models,
To fully urban
exploit its simulations and other utility,
green and low-carbon relateditconcepts and technologies
is necessary to broaden morehavecollection
rapidly
developed. Second, the development of DT cities demonstrates collaborative momentum.
The pace of urban interdisciplinary simulation and cloud simulation is quickening, and
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 13 of 20

approaches and collection directions based on specific needs in the construction process,
as well as to solve the problem of having or not having data. After data are obtained, it
is important to consider how to ensure data quality; therefore, the data can be conducive
to the smooth operation of urban smart management. In the calculation and sharing link,
it may be worth investigating the use of deep learning algorithms to monitor the carbon
emissions of city buildings. Furthermore, comprehensive analyses of urban carbon emis-
sions, carbon footprint tracking, learning and simulation are required to optimize carbon
emission activities. Green and low-carbon technologies are now integrated into all aspects
of economic development. As a result, when the infrastructure is strengthened, more
emphasis should be placed on opening up the follow-up application endpoint. According
to Lian (2021) [87], in order to achieve green and low-carbon development, it is necessary
to begin with a waste-free city. The organic combination of intelligent construction and the
recycling of wastewater, waste gas, waste things and waste heat can significantly promote
energy savings and carbon reductions in society. There is also a lot of digitization and green
exploration in transportation, buildings and other energy consumption “big consumers”
from the perspective of urban application scenarios. With respect to transportation, the use
of alternative fuel vehicles is an important step toward reducing pollution from mobile
sources. The construction of some intelligent charging piles that can collect data can not
only meet the needs of car owners, but it can also assist operators in analyzing charging
pile site selection, designing charging prices and optimizing operation, all of which can
play a role in the layout of the urban power grid system. Mahmoud et al., (2021) [88]
believed that the IGB itself could use a variety of sensors to achieve real-time monitoring of
the building environment and energy consumption, as well as to improve building users’
sense of acquisition and participation via terminal visualization devices. While meeting
people’s health and comfort needs, it can better guide the formation of green behavior
habits, which is very beneficial for promoting sustainable urban management and human
behavior management. First, building simulation technology is used to optimize the design;
therefore, the building’s energy saving rate can reach the standard of nearly zero energy
consumption. Second, photovoltaic building integration technology is widely used, and air
source heat pumps and fresh air heat recovery are installed to increase renewable energy
proportions and to achieve energy cascade utilization. Furthermore, the installation of
a smart energy and environmental management platform provides the owners with an
intuitive and accurate energy consumption and environmental situation. Furthermore,
intelligent equipment fault diagnosis service is available for property management systems,
which can improve management efficiency while lowering operation and maintenance
costs.
In summary, the above studies suggest that the fundamental requirement of IGB is to
reduce the load on the environment while also providing a safe, healthy and comfortable
living space. It is environmentally friendly and achieves the harmonious coexistence and
long-term progression of humans, architecture and the environment [89,90]. Its concept
is in-line with the needs of smart city construction. In a vast expanse, smart cities cannot
exist on their own. As a result, the advancement of green buildings must be linked
to the advancement of smart city construction. Sustainable development and people’s
livelihoods should be prioritized in the evolution of smart cities, and green building should
be prioritized as well. In recent times, urban buildings have been continuing to evolve
in a large-scale direction. If there is no intelligent building automatic control system
for unified energy consumption management, the waste of water, electricity and other
materials and human resources is unavoidable, and user satisfaction cannot be guaranteed.
As a result, the intelligent building automatic control system should be the energy-saving
building system of choice. Many building automation brands have also incorporated the
product and technical concept of minimizing building energy consumption and facilitating
personnel management into their development. Furthermore, they help management to
realize distributed monitoring and the intelligent application of a building’s central air
conditioning system, water supply and drainage system, air supply and exhaust system
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 14 of 20

and intelligent lighting system. In this day and age of IoT and cloud computing, businesses
are actively pursuing technological transformation and innovation in order to provide
users with a more intelligent and environmentally green experience.
Moreover, 715 million tons of carbon dioxide annually can be saved globally by
capturing and managing energy consumption and improving building efficiency. With
the rapid progression of the economy, the growth of economic construction will inevitably
lead to a rigid increase in building demand, putting resources, energy and environmental
protection under greater strain in the future. Strengthening green building design and
implementing current IoT energy management tools for urban construction through green
environmental protection and low carbon emission reduction are consistent with the
national green low-carbon energy saving and consumption reduction guiding ideology. In
addition, it can reduce resource consumption, maximize resource utilization and improve a
city’s economic and social benefits.

4. Development Advantages and Challenges of Intelligent Green Building

4.1. Development Advantage and Adoption Value of Intelligent Green Building
Firstly, green advancement of the building industry is critical in leading and promoting
the continuous innovation of building technology. Long et al., (2021) [91] believed that,
in today’s rapid progression of the construction industry, the construction industry needs
to accelerate development speed in order to realize energy conservation, environmental
protection and greening, and to provide a healthy production and living environment
for humans. IGB has a significant annual impact on building energy efficiency and CO2
emission reduction, and these positive effects are expected to grow in the near future.
Using photovoltaic systems can supplement consumers’ energy needs while reducing their
reliance on fossil fuels, thereby reducing global warming. The advancement of photovoltaic
materials encourages the integration of photovoltaics and architecture, and photovoltaic
building components can be manufactured to construct photoelectric buildings. The
integration of a photoelectric building and an energy-saving building causes the building
to increase energy based on energy savings and, as a result, to increase production capacity.
According to Shafique et al., (2020) [92], photovoltaic systems can save resources, improve
energy efficiency, reduce pollution and play a significant role in alleviating energy shortages
in society.
Secondly, IGB integrates BIM, GIS, the IoT and cloud computing. As data centers
become more important in new infrastructure, and as carbon emissions become a critical
test, determining how to generate greater marginal benefits from ever-larger data centers is
a critical issue. According to Azizi et al., (2020) [93], the IoT of buildings can be defined
as a network of embedded software, sensors, electronic devices and connected buildings
that can collect and exchange building data. The rapid deployment of data acquisition
equipment and the automated control of traditional buildings is transforming the facilities
management industry, and utilizing these data can provide practical assistance in improving
management efficiency. The next step for IGB is to transition to zero-energy buildings. A
zero-energy building significantly reduces energy demand by improving energy efficiency
and ensuring energy demand balance through the use of renewable technologies. Solar
photovoltaics has been widely used in the field of architecture to meet this requirement.
Figure 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a zero-energy building’s calculation boundary.
As demonstrated in Figure 5, a zero-energy system is primarily powered by renewable
energy and can operate independently of the power grid. According to Taherahmadi et al.,
(2021) [94], zero-energy green buildings not only save energy but also reduce greenhouse
gas emissions. Solar, wind, biofuels and other renewable energy sources are primarily
used in zero-energy building designs to meet the building’s electricity and air conditioning
needs. Wind turbines, solar hot-water collectors and geothermal energy are examples of
in situ renewable energy generation technologies. There are currently four indexes for
measuring a zero-energy building: end-use energy, primary energy, energy cost and energy
carbon emissions [95–98]. The evaluation results of the four indicators listed above show
 energy efficiency, reduce pollution and play a significant role in alleviating energy short-
ages in society.
Secondly, IGB integrates BIM, GIS, the IoT and cloud computing. As data centers
become more important in new infrastructure, and as carbon emissions become a critical
test, determining how to generate greater marginal benefits from ever-larger data centers
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 15 of 20
is a critical issue. According to Azizi et al. (2020) [93], the IoT of buildings can be defined
as a network of embedded software, sensors, electronic devices and connected buildings
that can collect and exchange building data. The rapid deployment of data acquisition
significant differences.
equipment Given the
and the automated intelligent
control building
of traditional evaluation
buildings index factors,
is transforming thean attempt
facilities
is made to build
management a simple
industry, andIGB evaluation
utilizing these system
data canunder
providegreen building
practical evaluation,
assistance thereby
in improv-
enriching
ing the new
management green building
efficiency. The next evaluation standard
step for IGB and promoting
is to transition the evaluation
to zero-energy buildings.and
progression
A zero-energy of building
IGB. In addition, modern
significantly buildings
reduces energy are becoming
demand more people-oriented,
by improving energy effi-
shiftingand
ciency away from the
ensuring previous
energy demandconcepts of engineering,
balance through the architecture or technology
use of renewable as the
technologies.
center. This has prompted architects, developers, and others to place a greater
Solar photovoltaics has been widely used in the field of architecture to meet this require- emphasis
on providing
ment. Figure 5 more
depictsadaptable
a schematicspaces while
diagram of aalso increasing
zero-energy their emphasis
building’s on occupant
calculation bound-
comfort.
ary.

Energy input

On-site
Electric energy
renewable energy
District heating / cooling
Natural gas
Bioenergy
Building energy Energy output Other energy
consumption

Building physical boundary

Measurement
indicators
energy consumption delivery of energy
Energy balance

Figure 5.
Figure Schematicdiagram
5. Schematic diagramof
ofcalculation
calculationboundary
boundaryofofzero-energy
zero-energybuilding.
building.

4.2. Challenges and Opportunities of Intelligent Green Building

As demonstrated in Figure 5, a zero-energy system is primarily powered by renew-
First, given
able energy the operate
and can current independently
trend of vigorously
of thepromoting
power grid. energy conservation,
According emission
to Taherahmadi
reduction
et al. (2021)and
[94],green building,
zero-energy it isbuildings
green no surprisenotthat
onlyall industries
save energy but arealso
striving
reduce forgreen-
carbon
neutrality. It is natural for the construction industry to exert control
house gas emissions. Solar, wind, biofuels and other renewable energy sources are pri- over the entire con-
struction process in order to achieve energy conservation and emission
marily used in zero-energy building designs to meet the building’s electricity and air con- reductions, which
is why green
ditioning needs.construction
Wind turbines, is aggressively promoted.
solar hot-water Intelligent
collectors buildings
and geothermal have are
energy obvious
ex-
amples of in situ renewable energy generation technologies. There are currently fourreduc-
benefits with respect to resource conservation, energy conservation and emission in-
tions. for
dexes Intelligent
measuring construction
a zero-energy is what makes
building: environmental
end-use protection
energy, primary energy, andenergy
low costs
cost a
reality.
and Green
energy buildings,
carbon according
emissions to the
[95–98]. TheIGB, necessitate
evaluation more
results of elaborate designs than
the four indicators ever
listed
before.show
above Fine refers to high
significant quality. If Given
differences. a design
theis intelligent
not perfect,building
the installation
evaluationis more
indexdifficult
fac-
to perfect.
tors, Refinement
an attempt is made necessitates
to build a increased
simple IGB effort on the part
evaluation system of the design
under greenunit. A large
building
number of professionals are involved in the design of a building.
evaluation, thereby enriching the new green building evaluation standard and promoting Refinement includes
not evaluation
the only the design of each major
and progression but In
of IGB. also the overall
addition, modernmatching andare
buildings coordination
becoming more of the
design team [99,100]. As a result, the requirement of integrated design
people-oriented, shifting away from the previous concepts of engineering, architecture or is advanced, posing
a greater challenge to the current production and organizational modes of each design
institute.
Second, green buildings necessitate higher standards and more stringent oversight.
The existing standard code is the qualified line for construction, and strictly adhering to the
standard code ensures only the pass line for construction. If the link between design and
construction is broken, it is not a qualified product, let alone a green building. Currently,
the overall quality of the building, from design to construction, is gradually deteriorating.
Raising the standard requirements will increase the difficulty of design even further. The
current market environment does not support the design initiative to raise standards or go
above and beyond standard specifications. It is not only a cost issue but also a significant
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 16 of 20

challenge for architectural design. It takes bravery to create a design that deviates from the
norm. It also necessitates effort and social acceptance.
Third, green building necessitates forward-thinking design. From design to construc-
tion, the average project takes three to five years, and larger projects can take even longer.
If advanced products are used in the design, the technology may not be mature, and the
price may be higher. There should be considerations regarding what technology to use and
what conditions to set aside for future technology. At the moment, most design institutes
do not place a premium on these issues. In the event of a public health emergency, such
as COVID-19, for example, the entire central air-conditioning system must be upgraded.
Green building necessitates that the technology and products used in the building are
appropriately advanced beyond the current level, leaving space and conditions for future
improvement, which necessitates a superb design level and superb research and innovation
abilities, both of which are beyond the capabilities of most design units [101].
To summarize, IGB is a globally recognized architectural development direction. With
the advancement of social economy, today’s society is becoming more aware of the concept
of sustainable development, which should focus not only on immediate benefits but also
on long-term benefits. IGB emphasizes not only design and construction but also operation
and maintenance during the construction process. Simultaneously, the design quality,
construction quality, material equipment, operation and maintenance level of the building
are important factors and preconditions influencing the building’s operation performance.
The advancement of IGB necessitates a comprehensive improvement in the quality of
the building’s foundation. IGB’s significance can only be demonstrated by doing the
fundamental work of building application levels well.

5. Conclusions
The rapid advancement and cross-fusion of key enabling technologies such as digital
design, virtual simulation and the industrial IoT have resulted in DTs undergoing a boom.
Physical and digital models can be linked into a visual environment to visualize sensor data
with the help of DTs. Three-dimensional visualization of the product’s operation, assembly,
disassembly and maintenance processes may also be performed in order to facilitate product
training and maintenance. Industries such as public safety, traditional retail, transportation
and communal life are being reinvented as new smart cities emerge. Artificial intelligence,
cloud computing, big data, 5G and the Internet of Things are all evolving, and several black
technology projects in the domains of security, business, transportation and community
have developed. Buildings are more complicated than ever before, and complex systems
and subsystems must communicate with one another. DTs make it easier to manage these
complicated spaces and all of the work that the company conducts with them, and they all
work together to bring the building to life from conception to completion.
To achieve green urban development, environmental, energy, resources, ecology, safety
and other monitoring and management systems must be established as DTs mature. As a
result, the realization of greening and the introduction of intelligent building intelligent
systems are inextricably linked. The development, essence and assessment indexes of
IGB, a new industry, are all thoroughly described. The specific use of DTs in the field of
intelligent buildings is examined in conjunction with the present frontier DTs. Furthermore,
the opportunities and obstacles faced by IGB in the development process are summarized,
along with the current social background and technological status quo, in the hope of
providing a reference for supporting the sustainable growth of cities. IGB’s technical
important elements and development trends are extensively summarized. IGB, on the other
hand, needs to improve its intelligent control system for its interior environment. We will
undertake study on this subject and perform an in-depth analysis of relevant technologies
for creating IGB in future research.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, B.Y. and Z.L.; methodology, F.W.; writing—original draft
preparation, Z.L.; writing—review and editing, B.Y. All authors have read and agreed to the published
version of the manuscript.
Buildings 2022, 12, 856 17 of 20

Funding: This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: Not applicable.
Acknowledgments: The authors appreciate funding support from Key Laboratory of New Technol-
ogy for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University (No.
LNTCCMA-20220106).
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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