The potential of smart energy efficiency

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I've recently written a series of articles about simple and inexpensive ways to save energy, mostly based on individual equipment projects (HVAC, lighting, etc.) or practices. While they are useful, simple, and cost-effective, they may not be "home" energy savers. The report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy looks at energy efficiency differently, looking at a broader set of companies or buildings. Their report, Defining Smart Efficiency, concludes that by implementing “smart efficiency,” we as a nation can reduce energy consumption by %, saving billions of dollars in energy costs each year. In other words, this means using systems that concentrate energy where and when it is actually needed. For some individual companies and buildings, the percentage savings can be much higher.

The ACEEE report discusses opportunities to improve the efficiency of energy production and distribution systems, which could lead to significant savings. The report discusses how major improvements in IT (information technology), such as the use of the UAE Phone Number internet and technology (sensors), and better transmission of readings between devices can enable more efficient use and distribution of energy, resulting in savings on energy costs.

The report mentions the following two strategies that can improve energy efficiency:

Manufacturing industries often use complex equipment to meet complex and changing power and steam needs. Advanced sensors and controls can record energy usage and operating information in real time and transmit it over the Internet to accurately identify changes in demand over time. Sensors and controllers with associated software can connect to a company's existing software to regulate energy use, reduce waste and save costs.

Real-time data on office building energy consumption can also save money. Some office buildings already use systems to record energy consumption between different offices and departments and transmit this information to managers or individuals at their desks or on video monitors. The key is to provide tenants with real-time data to better understand critical energy-intensive operations and evaluate energy efficiency improvements through various strategies. This “what if” analysis can lead to cost savings.

While the efficiency of individual components will continue to improve, a systems approach can significantly improve energy efficiency, resulting in measurable energy cost savings and reduced energy risk.

Mark Carrell is the owner of Climate Change and Environmental Services. CCES can work with your engineering and IT staff to develop and implement smart energy systems to help you understand your energy usage, improve efficiency and save money. We can also recommend strategies to improve the efficiency and cost savings of individual components and determine the feasibility of using renewable energy sources.