Energy monitoring and targeting is an energy efficiency technique based on the standard management axiom stating that you cannot manage what you cannot measure.
Monitoring and targeting techniques provide energy managers with feedback on operating practices, results of energy management projects, and guidance on the level of energy use that is expected in a certain period. Importantly, they also give early warning of unexpected excess consumption caused by equipment malfunctions, operator error, unwanted user behaviours, lack of effective maintenance and the like.
Understanding Energy Monitoring
What is energy monitoring?
Energy monitoring is a process of collecting, analysing and measuring all information related to energy consumption in a facility or building.
This information includes data on the amount of energy used, consumption patterns, associated costs, among others.
Energy monitoring can be carried out through real-time monitoring systems, periodic readings or by analysing energy bills. It can also include tracking other factors, such as temperature, humidity or air quality, which can affect energy consumption.
Main objectives of energy monitoring
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Identify and explain excessive energy use
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Detect instances when consumption is unexpectedly higher or lower than would usually have been the case
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Visualise energy consumption trends (daily, weekly, seasonal and operational)
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Determine future energy use and costs when planning changes in the business
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Diagnose specific areas of wasted energy
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Observe how changes to relevant driving factors impact energy efficiency
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Develop performance targets for energy management programs
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Manage energy consumption, rather than accept it as a fixed cost
Benefits of Energy Monitoring
Growing concern for the environment and the need for efficient use of resources has led businesses to implement sustainable measures in their operations. In this sense, energy monitoring has become an indispensable tool for tracking and controlling energy consumption in a business.
In addition to contributing to the care of the planet, energy monitoring also offers important economic benefits, such as reduced energy bill costs and increased competitiveness in the market in both the short and long term.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Pinpoint energy waste, identify saving opportunities in real time, and reduce costs with device level monitoring
Reduced Operational Cost
Improve operational efficiencies and reduce total cost of operations through the use of more granular level operational data
Improve Sustainability Reporting
Use historical device level data across the entire energy portfolio to report on environmental impact and sustainability measures and objectives
Preventative Maintenance
Avoid downtime while ensuring efficiency and effectiveness by optimising preventative and condition-based maintenance needs
Energy monitoring implementation process
The process of implementing energy monitoring can be different depending on the type of system used and the specific needs of each case, but generally follows the following steps:
01
Site assessment
This involves a detailed assessment of existing installations, including equipment, lighting, heating, air-conditioning and other systems, to understand how energy is being used and where improvements can be made.
02
System design
Based on the initial review, the type of energy monitoring system to be used is defined and a detailed implementation plan is drawn up.
03
Equipment installation
Once the design is complete, the installation of the equipment needed to perform the monitoring, such as energy meters, sensors and other devices, is carried out.
04
System configuration
The monitoring system is configured to collect and analyse energy consumption data in real time.
05
System testing
Tests are conducted to ensure that the system is functioning properly and that accurate data is being recorded.
06
Data analysis
Once the system is up and running, analysis of the data collected is initiated to identify energy usage patterns and possible areas for improvement.
07
Implementation of improvements
Based on the results of the analysis, energy efficiency measures are identified and implemented to optimise energy consumption.
08
Follow-up and maintenance
Once improvements have been implemented, energy consumption is continuously monitored to ensure that the expected savings are being achieved and the monitoring system is regularly maintained to ensure that it is working properly.
Sustainability and reputation through energy monitoring
Energy monitoring as a fundamental part of business operations
Through energy monitoring we promote a more responsible and efficient use of energy resources in business operations.
Energy monitoring is a fundamental instrument to achieve sustainability objectives, as it allows us to make decisions based on data and evidence and to carry out concrete actions to reduce the environmental impact.
Regulations & reputation
Government energy regulations and norms impose certain obligations and requirements that companies must achieve. Conversely, if companies cannot meet these requirements, they could face penalties and fines.
On the other hand, energy monitoring allows companies to increase their social responsibility by being a company that does not affect the planet through its operations. Apart from contributing to the environment, this opens up new opportunities to collaborate with companies that are in the same direction.
FAQ
You're probably
wondering...
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What is an energy management company and what does it do?An energy management company is a company in charge of providing services and solutions to improve energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings, industries or municipalities. Its goal is to optimise energy use and reduce costs through the implementation of technologies and measures that enable more efficient consumption. The activities and services that energy management companies can perform include: Energy audit: This consists of carrying out an exhaustive analysis of the energy installations and processes of a company or entity, in order to identify opportunities for improvement. Design and implementation of energy management systems: Responsible for developing and implementing a strategic plan for efficient energy management, setting clear objectives and targets and proposing measures and technologies to achieve them. Installation of measurement and monitoring systems: These systems allow real-time measurement of energy consumption and the detection of possible deviations or anomalies that may arise. Energy efficiency advice and consultancy: They guide companies on how to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint by adopting sustainable measures and technologies. Renewable energy implementation: Helping companies to integrate renewable energy sources into their processes, such as solar, wind or biomass, which helps to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. And much more
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Why is it important to work with an energy management consulting?Working with an energy management company can be beneficial for a company for several reasons: Cost reduction: An energy management company will analyse and optimise a company's energy use, which can result in a significant reduction in energy costs. Improved energy efficiency: The energy management company will help identify and correct possible inefficiencies in energy use, which in turn will help reduce consumption and costs. Compliance with regulations and standards: The energy management company is also responsible for ensuring that the company complies with regulations and standards related to energy use, avoiding potential fines and penalties. Reducing environmental impact: By improving energy efficiency and using renewable energy sources, the company can also reduce its environmental impact and contribute to sustainability.
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Why Digren Energy?Since 2012 we have been helping all business sectors and local authorities to save and manage their energy. Our approach is focused on reducing consumption, we achieve this through our personalised and continuous strategy over time, we do not limit ourselves to the first study, we will keep in touch with you to always offer you the best deal. As energy consulting firm, we work with companies to manage energy costs, ensuring the best energy solutions are found to reduce consumption.
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