What are some energy-saving measures for building automation systems?

2 Implement demand response and load shedding

Another way to save energy with BAS is to participate in demand response programs, which are incentives offered by utilities or grid operators to reduce or shift energy consumption during peak periods or grid emergencies. By using your BAS to communicate with the utility or grid operator, you can receive signals or requests to reduce your energy demand when needed, and receive compensation or lower rates in return. You can also use your BAS to implement load shedding strategies, which are actions to reduce or turn off non-essential loads, such as water heaters, chillers, pumps, or fans, when the demand exceeds the supply or the price is too high.

3 Upgrade and integrate systems and devices

A third way to save energy with BAS is to upgrade and integrate the systems and devices that are connected to it, such as HVAC, lighting, sensors, controllers, meters, and actuators. By upgrading to more efficient and smart technologies, you can improve the performance and reliability of your systems and devices, and reduce the energy losses and maintenance costs. By integrating them with your BAS, you can enable more data collection and analysis, more centralized and remote control, and more automation and optimization of the operations. For example, you can use your BAS to collect and analyze data from smart meters and submeters, and use it to identify and eliminate energy waste, benchmark and compare energy performance, and generate reports and alerts.

4 Educate and engage occupants and staff

A fourth way to save energy with BAS is to educate and engage the occupants and staff of the building, and involve them in the energy-saving efforts. You can use your BAS to provide feedback and information to the occupants and staff, such as energy consumption, savings, goals, and tips, and use it to motivate and reward them for their actions and behaviors. You can also use your BAS to enable more occupant control and comfort, such as allowing them to adjust the temperature, lighting, or ventilation levels within a certain range, or to access the BAS through a mobile app or a web portal. By doing so, you can increase the awareness and satisfaction of the occupants and staff, and foster a culture of energy efficiency and conservation.

5 Monitor and maintain performance and quality

A fifth way to save energy with BAS is to monitor and maintain the performance and quality of the systems and devices that are connected to it, and ensure that they are operating as intended and expected. You can use your BAS to perform regular and preventive maintenance, such as checking the filters, coils, belts, valves, and ducts, and replacing or repairing them when needed. You can also use your BAS to detect and diagnose faults, errors, or anomalies, such as leaks, malfunctions, or deviations, and correct or report them as soon as possible. By doing so, you can prevent or minimize the energy losses and damages caused by poor performance and quality, and extend the lifespan and efficiency of your systems and devices.