Remember a time before sensors and computers, when all operations were manual? Lights that were left on stayed on until someone turned them off.
This is the dawn of a new, energy-smart age. Today, automated systems that use computers to control building operations have become standard practice in facilities that use large amounts of energy. By remotely monitoring and controlling energy-consuming devices, a building’s Energy Management System (EMS) can optimize cost and energy savings, as well as occupant comfort and safety – all without the occupants ever having to lift a finger.
Some of the easiest ways to save energy – and money – can be broken down into three simple rules:
- Use only what you need
- Use only as much as you need
- Perform as efficiently as possible
These recommendations are simple enough to follow for personal workstation devices. However, most
systems in a building operate on a larger scale, and impact major sections of a building.
Most buildings stand to benefit greatly from the trending and monitoring capabilities of an EMS. In buildings that lack this sort of automated system, lights and HVAC equipment frequently operate when they are not needed. Base temperatures are often inadequate for the season. And, because of a lack of operator oversight, most systems fail to maximize their efficiency potential.
For building owners and facility manage
rs who are looking to cost-effectively imp
rove facility operations, using an EMS is the best way to optimize energy savings. The system process can be described in as simple of terms as a motion-activated light or a thermostat. When a sensor recognizes differences in ambient light levels or that the temperature needs to be adjusted, it initiates a response to the system controller, which then sends a signal to the equipment responsible for making the necessary changes. Problem solved!
Systems with a more complicated, sophisticated functionality are also able to manage the length of time that equipment uses energy, usually with very flexible scheduling options that allow for multiple start and stop times. An EMS can further manage energy needs by using set points for various ambient sensors throughout the system. Even more advanced systems might help identify strategies for improving operations and saving opportunities by constantly monitoring equipment operation and tracking energy consumption.
A properly optimized EMS takes all the tediousness out of manually controlling a building’s energy needs to maximize efficiency. This is best accomplished by employing strategies such as:
- setting reduced or shutdown points for equipment when it’s not in use
- scheduling equipment activity according to occupancy in an area of a building
- preventing simultaneous heating and cooling across spaces
- adjusting light levels based on need
An effective EMS makes good sense for any building where energy efficiency is a concern. Some resources that should aid in the installation or optimization of an EMS in any facility include the Energy Management Systems Guide, the O&M Best Practices Guide, and the ENERGY STAR Building Upgrade Manual.
Please share your comments on Energy Management Systems with us and other readers of this Blog!
Content for this Blog post courtesy of Courtney Welch, National Renewable Energy Laboratory