For commercial buildings, the average utility cost in is $2.14 per square foot. When operating a large facility, this adds up quickly. Modern Building Management Systems (BMS) play a critical role in monitoring energy consumption in an electrical distribution network. Their job is to monitor the high energy demands of building systems such as air conditioning, heating, ventilation, lighting, and fire alarms. However, despite their strength in monitoring these systems, BMSs fall short on data quantity and quality for electrical distribution systems. Specifically, real-time electrical distribution operation, loading, consumption, and status.
A BMS is also incapable of archiving and reporting these deficiencies in a meaningful manner. As a result, facility managers seek to streamline operations or find cost-saving opportunities regarding the electrical distribution system. Generally, they require more insight and reporting than a BMS can provide. Fortunately, Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) exist to rapidly poll, log, and report on each innovative component of an electrical distribution system.
If you are unfamiliar with this concept, do not be alarmed. We have outlined five ways Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) complement BMS Electrical Data.
5 Reasons to Supplement BMS with EPMS
1. Quality of Electrical Data and Events
EPMS systems centralize data via precise and frequent (every second) polls of electrical distribution equipment to gather information on energy, power, communications, status, and other factors. It is common to find BMSs configured to report every five minutes or even slower.
Additionally, EPMS systems provide the ability to record real-time data, allowing for power-event investigations. Today’s technology enables EPMSs to offer information on the type of power event, its location, and its source (utility or internal). EPMS systems consistently monitor the electrical system and alert facility operators to power events in real-time.
2. Historical Data and Reporting
From the EPMS to electrical system components, the quality and quantity of polled data over time tell a fascinating story. Systems that present consumption, power quality, and loading data effectively facilitate critical decision-making. All facilities can benefit from a clearer understanding of their power usage.
Historical data can enhance planning, maintenance, and system efficiencies. EPMS systems can also demonstrate power quality patterns and contributing events over time to utilities when a power outage damages loads. Furthermore, EPMS systems provide a robust foundation for resolving utility bill reconciliation and appropriating funds to tenants by monitoring loads at the tenant level.
3. Improve Electrical System Reliability
As described above, EPMS systems concentrate on real-time reporting and recording functionality. Trending this data allows us to identify system reliability and efficiency patterns. Facility operations teams use this information for prioritizing maintenance and planning system expansion. Above all, the ability to address problematic devices and power quality resulting from external resources helps improve bottom line month over month and year over year.
4. Improve Operational Efficiencies
The EPMS systems allow for the reconciliation of utility bills. Accurate billing is essential to determine opportunities for our consumers to reduce their consumption. For example, a typical utility tariff for facilities is time-of-use. Thus, it is beneficial to schedule certain high load events during non-premium hours if possible.
EPMS data reporting helps identify high load periods and the load types responsible. As a result, companies can use this data to optimize their consumption planning to minimize costs.
5. Improve System Planning
Organizations and facilities must adapt their needs over time in a dynamic business environment. Many companies, for instance, find themselves in need of electric distribution expansion. Meanwhile, EPMS historical data helps plan and evaluate the impact of system changes. However, changes do not always include the addition of loads. In many cases, offsetting generation is added, such as photovoltaic (solar).
The ability to calculate ROI and other financial impacts depends on understanding:
- Critical loads within the system
- The highest consumption times
- How offsetting generation can help offset the loads
APT 4 EPMS
APT specializes in designing, implementing, and servicing small and large EPMS systems. In short, APT speaks your Information Technology team’s language. This language defines the server and software resources required for the power monitoring application. Further, we help you focus on the information you need to run your business.
Still have questions?
Contact an APT specialist today and discuss how we can help meet your EPMS needs.
Ken Shaffer | APT Engineering Operations Manager