Building energy management systems (BEMS) are computer-based control sys- tems that control and monitor the mechanical and electrical equipment in buildings such as ventilation, heating, lighting, power systems, and so on. This is sometimes called building management systems (BMS); they connect the building services plant back to a central computer to enable control of on/off times, humidity, temperatures, and so on. Data cables connect the controlled plant through a series of hubs called outstations around the building back to a master station that is central supervisor computer where building operators can supervisory control and monitor the building. Energy management systems can save millions on annual energy bills while increasing prosperity in your building and making it easier to run. Today’s energy management systems (EMS) make managing energy utiliza- tion (and bills) easier than ever.
Smart integrated building solutions are becoming the standard. Building integration can include access control, intrusion detection, security, chillers, lighting, digital video, power measurement, variable speed drives, and more. The integrated approach provides access to all building systems through a coherent and customizable user interface. In addition, building integration reduces training costs and standardizes alarm and logging data.
Integrating building systems can also reduce capital expenditures because data networks are shared, there are fewer computers and servers, and equipment can be used in a variety of ways. For example, a passive infrared detector, which is typically used only by an intruder system, can also trigger CCTV recording, relax set points on HVAC controls, and shut off lighting when no occupancy is detected. Another example is when access control is used to enter a building, the signal is used by the lighting control and HVAC system to change from economy mode to occupied mode.
Ongoing operating expenses are reduced with fewer computers and networks to maintain and fewer user interfaces, ensuring operators are more efficient and productive. Integrated control strategies allow building systems to work in tandem with each other, providing greater room for energy savings. Using information from all systems, strategies can be deployed to reduce the use of energy-consuming equipment and create a comfortable and productive workspace.
