EMS are computer-aided tools
that monitor, control, and optimize the performance of the generation and
transmission of electric utility grids. Energy Management Systems can be used to centrally control devices
like HVAC units and lighting systems across multiple locations. EMS also provide
metering, sub-metering and monitoring functions that allow facility managers to
gather data and insight to make more informed decisions about energy activities
across their sites.
Operating Systems EMS rely on a model based approach. Traditional planning
models and EMS models were always independently maintained and seldom in
synchronism with each other. Using EMS software allows planners and operators
to share a common model reducing the mismatch between the two as well as cutting
model maintenance.
A Common User
Interface allows for Easier Information Transition from Planning to Operations
EMS
Suppliers began to deliver solutions based on industry standard
hardware platforms with Windows based solutions and blade servers occupy a
fraction of the space previously required; a blade rack of 20 servers occupy
the same space previously occupied by a single server.
Energy
Efficiency EMS can also refer to a system designed to achieve energy
efficiency through process optimization by reporting on granular energy use by
individual pieces of equipment. Newer, cloud-based energy management systems
provide the ability to remotely control HVAC and other energy-consuming equipment,
gather real-time data and generate intelligent guidance on finding and
capturing the most compelling savings opportunities.
ESCo is
an energy and water service/savings company that provides design,
implementation and financing of energy/water saving projects, retrofitting,
conservation, infrastructure outsourcing, power generation and supply, as well
as risk management.
Building
Automated Systems energy management system also refers to a computer
system designed specifically for the automated control and monitoring of
electro mechanical facilities in a building which yield significant energy
consumption such as heating, ventilation and lighting installations for single
or groups of buildings. Most of these energy management systems also provide
facilities for the reading of electricity, gas and water meters. The data
obtained from these can then be used to perform diagnostic and optimization routines
on a frequent basis to produce trend analysis and consumption forecasts.
Energy Management Software is
a general term and category referring to a variety of energy-related software
applications which may provide utility bill tracking, real-time metering,
building HVAC and lighting control systems, building simulation and modeling,
carbon and sustainability reporting, IT equipment management and energy audits.
Tools for Energy
Cost Reduction and Consumption in Buildings and Communities
Data
Collection is for three main purposes: Reporting, Monitoring and
Engagement. Electricity and Natural Gas are the most common utilities measured,
though systems may monitor steam, petroleum or other energy uses, water use, and
even locally generated energy:
Reporting tools are targeted at owners and executives who want
to automate energy and emissions auditing. Cost and consumption data from a
number of buildings can be aggregated or compared with the software, saving
time relative to manual reporting.
Monitoring tools track and display real-time and historical
data with various bench marking tools such as energy consumption per square
foot, weather normalization or more advanced analysis using energy modeling
algorithms to identify anomalous consumption.
Engagement refers to automated or manual responses to collected
and analyzed energy data. Building control systems can respond as readily to
energy fluctuation as a heating system can respond to temperature variation.
Another objective of Engagement is to connect occupants’ daily choices with
building energy consumption. By displaying real-time consumption information, occupants
see the immediate impact of their actions. The software can be used to promote
energy conservation initiatives, offer advice to the occupants, or provide a
forum for feedback on sustainability initiatives.