Energy use in buildings is one of the most significant greenhouse gas emissions, and if no further action is taken, the number will likely double in a few years.
This is why organisations that own and control buildings should find ways to use modern energy-saving technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Rough figures suggest that cost-effective technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), can reduce energy consumption by 20% as one component of building energy management.
IoT is a highly effective method for integrating, optimising, and controlling energy usage across various systems within a building. IoT-enabled innovative building platforms can improve energy management and contribute to a sustainable future.
IoT is a device network that can communicate and transfer data. The structures include sensors, connectivity, and data processors. In energy management, equipment like smart thermostats, energy meters, and lighting controls are crucial in acquiring data from the devices, enabling efficient energy usage. Let's elaborate more regarding the role of IoT below:
IoT monitors energy consumption in real-time with sensors and intelligent meters so building managers can understand how electricity is used and point out aspects that misuse energy.
After collecting data, IoT devices analyse the consumption patterns to predict potential issues. Detecting faults in their early stages can help prevent significant problems. For instance, an HVAC system with IoT sensors can receive real-time data and send alerts to the maintenance team, ensuring timely repairs and continuous efficiency.
Look at automated lighting, HVAC systems and thermostats that adjust based on occupancy and environmental conditions. These devices can save energy and create a more comfortable working environment for building occupants.
Recognising how IoT can enhance energy efficiency and benefit their business, owners and facility managers should collaborate with IoT specialists to assess their properties. Contact Your Comms Group for a consultation on a customised IoT Business Solution that meets your business requirements.
IoT has been utilised around the world for some time now in a few settings, such as below:
A good use of the IoT for energy management would be the Edge building in Amsterdam, famous for being the greenest building on earth due to its ingenious design—lighting, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems that use IoT. The devices are included in the building's infrastructural elements and connected using sensors or smart controllers, thereby consuming minimum electricity.
IoT optimises energy-intensive processes in industrial settings. For instance, Siemens' Amberg Electronics Plant achieves significant energy savings by monitoring and controlling its production processes through IoT. Integrating IoT into production benefits operations by lowering downtime and enhancing energy efficiency.
Energy management with the IoT confronts some issues, including requiring more standardisation among equipment from different producers. At the same time, ensuring the privacy and safety of data is of great importance since energy-use data is very sensitive, hence the need for solid security methods such as encryption and secure communication methods.
In economic terms, high initial investment costs for IoT infrastructure, such as devices, system upgrades, and staff training, are usually considerable. Nonetheless, these costs are typically worth undertaking due to reduced energy and maintenance expenses.
We expect IoT to be enhanced further by integrating AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning), improving the energy management system even more. On the sustainability side, IoT will also support using renewable energy sources to reduce gas emissions.
Organisations, building management, and owners should pay close attention to these trends and comply with developing policies and regulations to improve customer service.
Conclusion
There are many ways to use IoT Business Solutions, such as intelligent sensors and other devices, to improve energy efficiency in buildings. Explore with Your Comms Group to choose the right strategy for making your business more energy-efficient. Contact us now!