To address these challenges, in May 2026, the university partnered with Sontay to implement a demand-driven ventilation system across its seven lecture theatres. At the heart of the solution are 28 MClimate CO2 + PIR lite LoRaWAN® sensors, which combine real-time CO₂ monitoring and passive infrared (PIR) occupancy detection within a single compact device. The devices were seamlessly integrated into the university’s BMS via the Sontay Bridge, providing a seamless bridge between wireless sensor data and the site's existing control infrastructure. All sensors were deployed across the university's seven lecture theatres with no disruption to day-to-day academic activities.

The university uses both detection methods in parallel, CO₂ monitoring and motion detection, to ensure ventilation responds accurately to actual room usage. Whenever elevated CO₂ levels or PIR motion indicate occupancy, the associated air handling unit immediately switches to occupied mode. In this mode, the temperature is maintained at a 22°C setpoint, while the ventilation system continuously regulates indoor air quality by maintaining CO₂ concentrations at approximately 600 ppm. This operating state is then maintained for two hours, providing a built-in buffer that accommodates temporary periods of inactivity during lectures, examinations, or presentations. Only when neither sensor detects activity throughout the entire two-hour period does the system return to unoccupied mode.

During unoccupied operation, the fans reduce to a 20% minimum speed to maintain background ventilation, while the space temperature is allowed to float within a wider 18°C to 24°C deadband, further reducing heating and cooling energy consumption.
This smart solution prevents ventilation from being reduced prematurely, safeguarding indoor air quality during occupied periods while eliminating the energy waste associated with fixed operating schedules.

The result is a fully automated, data-driven ventilation solution that continuously adapts to how spaces are actually used. By aligning ventilation rates with real occupancy patterns, the university is positioned to achieve significant year-on-year energy savings while maintaining a comfortable, healthy learning environment.
The deployment has already delivered measurable energy savings, reducing fan power by 97.6% while improving ventilation efficiency and occupant comfort.