• Energy Research

This study addresses the urgent need to improve energy efficiency in air conditioning systems by developing a low-cost automated control system for mini-split units. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, the proposed system reduces energy consumption without compromising user comfort. Implemented in an educational building in Jalisco, Mexico, the system integrates a Siemens Logo 8 PLC, the NodeMCU ESP12-E board, and open-source software to control operations through temperature sensors and infrared signal emitters. A quantitative, descriptive, and correlational methodology was applied, yielding significant results: a 10.63% reduction in energy consumption and a 34.8% reduction in operating costs. Additionally, the system maintains stable indoor temperatures within the optimal range of 22 to 24 °C while operating on a local network, ensuring reliability without constant internet access. The installation cost per unit was USD 95, with an annual return on investment of 30.74%, which makes it scalable and profitable to modernize existing buildings. The study highlights the transformative potential of integrating low-cost technologies into building management, offering a practical and replicable solution to improve energy efficiency, particularly in resource-limited contexts. These contributions support global efforts to mitigate climate change, reduce carbon footprints, and promote energy sustainability goals.

This article explores how the construction sector can significantly contribute to minimizing its environmental impact through reuse and recycling practices, in rehabilitation or new construction projects. This research focuses on implementing BIM methodology alongside biomaterials, 3D modeling, and digitization in compliance with the Green Building Code. Two case studies located in Jalisco and Querétaro (Mexico) are examined through a comparative analysis. The simulations are carried out in different geographical areas with two construction systems that allow us to see the output similarities. The results show the clear advantages of biomaterials over traditional materials such as concrete. The construction materials are shown to determine their operational energy consumption. From an economic point of view, this study supports data regarding lower energy costs, and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions is observed. In conclusion, both the models and simulations, along with the Toolkit, highlight the benefits of biomaterials over conventional industrial materials.