IoT-Based Systems for Energy Efficiency in Smart Buildings: Present, Trends and Sustainability Perspective
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Keywords:
Energy Efficiency, IoT in Smart Buildings, HVAC Optimization, Sustainable Architecture, Building Automation Systems, Green Building Technologies, ZigBee / MQTT / Sensor Networks, Smart Energy ManagementAbstract
This paper examines Internet of Things (IoT)-based systems developed to improve energy
efficiency in smart buildings from a sustainability perspective. Considering that buildings account for 35
40% of global energy consumption, digital transformation in this sector plays a pivotal role in achieving
Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG-7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG-11
(sustainable cities and communities). The study systematically evaluates the growing role of IoT
technologies in energy management by analyzing the energy-saving potential of applications such as
HVAC control, lighting automation, solar panel monitoring, and occupancy sensors. Findings from the
literature suggest that these systems offer 15–30% energy savings, although implementation costs and
limited user adaptation remain key barriers to widespread adoption. Furthermore, the performance and
applicability of communication protocols such as ZigBee, LoRa, Wi-Fi, and MQTT are comparatively
discussed. Drawing on over 15 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025, the paper
identifies technical and policy-related challenges such as high installation costs, data security concerns,
interoperability issues, and the lack of standard infrastructure. Additionally, it examines the current status
of policy frameworks such as the European Green Deal and Turkey's BEP-TR in relation to IoT
integration. Ultimately, the paper suggests increasing government incentives, developing technical
standards, promoting open-source solutions, and enhancing user awareness to facilitate the broader
adoption of IoT systems in smart buildings. These strategies are expected to significantly support both
environmental sustainability and economic efficiency in the context of global energy transition.
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