By Davis Watkins, Advanced TelemetryUntil recently, most business owners with small to mid-size commercial buildings had few options for implementing energy management systems (EMS) on any notable scale, even though a large portion of this building segment uses more energy per square foot than other commercial properties. HVAC equipment is often the leading culprit of energy waste.
Recent advances in wireless technology have spurred a new class of “drop in” EMS solutions. These affordable, feature-rich wireless EMS products offer real energy savings that enhance profitability and reduce carbon footprints for companies employing green business practices.
In much the same way a home wireless network can support multiple devices—like a laptop, desktop computer and printer—an EMS can be deployed in a commercial building to support multiple controls for HVAC and lighting systems. The network also allows for real-time wireless monitoring of the total building’s electrical consumption, and it takes the entire process straight to the Internet—enabling remote monitoring and control from a central location.
Most HVAC contractors can install a system in half a day or less by replacing a building’s existing thermostats with radio-equipped wireless thermostats. A factory accessory allows wireless control of up to eight other circuits for lights and ventilation. Almost any equipment that would benefit from being on an operation schedule can be integrated into the network.
First, simple current transformer clamps are slipped around the main electrical feed lines to the building and joined to the network. A real-time graphic interface touch panel display then becomes the new local central control and monitoring point for all HVAC equipment, lighting, refrigeration and other mechanical systems.
As a result, energy management systems offer users the opportunity to establish a remote “gatekeeper” of each building who can set schedules through the web interface, receive and respond to temperature alarms, and create monthly comparative energy consumption reports.
For commercial entities with small to mid-size buildings clamoring to control energy costs, wireless EMS solutions offer an unprecedented opportunity to scale back discretionary expenses. As the economic picture gets a little brighter, contractors should continue to develop new strategies and offer property owners technologies that will help differentiate their business—and increase contractors’ profitability.