management capabilities . The IoT includes environmental and occupancy sensors as well as other sensors that monitor power consumption . The data captured from these sensors is then analysed by building or facilities managers , contributing to their decision making and forming the basis for energy savings . |
Improving connectivity and efficiency
However , having connected devices is not enough . They must be tied in a way that enables communicative connectivity , meaning the right software must be in place . Since BEMS are defined as an IT solution , they enhance and improve the communication capabilities of sensing , control , and automation hardware to direct automated and / or manual improvements to building system operations .
Understandably , IT solutions need software . A good part of what makes a BEMS worthwhile is the software within it , and the nature of that software impacts the quality of the management system . With the right software in place , there is the potential to expand connectivity to new areas , extending it beyond the building control system . This can also deliver other benefits . Data on weather , electricity pricing and predictions of occupancy levels are just some examples of where better connected software can provide a boost to a building ’ s performance and cut operational costs .
To illustrate , consider an office that is minimally staffed during lunchtime . In the average building , key utilities such as lighting and heating , ventilation and air conditioning ( HVAC ) will continue to run as normal , sapping power for no measureable benefit to the occupants . By contrast , an occupancy sensor , integrated through the IoT to the BEMS , will detect a reduction in CO2 levels and communicate
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‘ Building energy demands are projected to grow significantly , making improvements in efficiency particularly important .’ |
with the BEMS to switch off HVAC and lighting systems . The office environment will remain in this deep setback , low power mode until the employees return . In the long term , the presence of such a system saves energy and reduces waste , amounting to substantial cost saving .
What can we expect from BEMS ?
Building energy demands are projected to grow significantly , making improvements in efficiency particularly important . Currently , buildings consume 53 per cent of the world ’ s electricity and are forecasted an increase of 80 per cent , due to growth in urbanisation . Furthermore , the number of people who live in cities will rise to 66 per cent in a few short decades , compared to 54 per cent today . Carbon emission targets will also need to be considered . As a result , buildings must become three times more efficient than they are currently .
BEMS with the right software are an important part of the solution and are driving incredible innovation in how buildings are designed and operated . As a testament to this , BEMS revenues are projected to surge from $ 2.7bn worldwide today to $ 12.8bn by 2025 . A combination of more sensors along with quality software and control strategies can help cut building energy consumption by nearly 77 per cent and contribute to an unprecedented level of energy efficiency .
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