## 4 Conclusions  
This study provides a detailed and systematic methodology for accurately determining the real Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems in university buildings, offering a novel approach to assess their energy efficiency and sustainability. The research focuses on a comparative analysis of two buildings with identical design parameters equipped with different HVAC systems, thereby enabling a robust evaluation of the performance of VRF systems in comparison to traditional low-temperature boiler systems, particularly in cold climates. By quantifying the real-world performance of these systems under actual operational conditions, this study offers valuable insights for building designers, facility managers, and policymakers aiming to optimize energy consumption and improve sustainability in large, energy-intensive buildings, such as universities. The results of this study reveal a significant advantage in energy efficiency for VRF systems, with a reduction of 67% in primary energy consumption per square meter compared to conventional boiler systems. This reduction not only translates into substantial operational cost savings but also demonstrates the potential of VRF systems to optimize resource utilization, particularly in large-scale buildings with high heating demands. By leveraging advanced technologies, such as variable refrigerant flow control, VRF systems can effectively modulate energy consumption based on real-time occupancy patterns and fluctuating thermal loads, further enhancing overall system efficiency throughout the building's lifecycle. This approach enables greater flexibility and responsiveness, ensuring that energy is used only when and where it is needed, which is a crucial feature for optimizing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. Beyond the energy efficiency improvements, this study underscores the significant environmental benefits offered by VRF systems. The findings indicate a 79% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) compared to traditional boiler systems. This reduction positions VRF systems as a critical technology in the fight against climate change, aligning with global efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment. As nations and regions adopt increasingly stringent carbon reduction targets, VRF systems play a pivotal role in helping to meet these objectives. By reducing GHG emissions and contributing to national and regional climate policies, VRF systems are integral to achieving broader sustainability goals, particularly in the context of the ongoing global transition to a low-carbon economy. Figure 7: Primary energy consumption and emissions per area in Buildings B1 and B2. In addition to energy efficiency and environmental benefits, this study highlights the capacity of VRF systems to integrate renewable energy (RE) sources into building operations. The research shows that VRF systems fulfill 83% of the building's energy demand using renewable energy, surpassing the regulatory SCOP threshold of 2.5. This accomplishment highlights the synergy between VRF systems and renewable energy sources, such as solar and geothermal energy, demonstrating that VRF systems can significantly reduce a building's reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This capability makes VRF systems an essential component of future-ready, sustainable building designs and presents a clear pathway toward achieving zero-energy buildings (ZEBs). As the global demand for sustainable building solutions grows, the integration of renewable energy with VRF technology will play a crucial role in the ongoing effort to create energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings that contribute to a sustainable future. Furthermore, the adaptability and scalability of VRF systems offer considerable advantages in terms of system flexibility and retrofitting, particularly in existing buildings undergoing renovations or expansions.