Intelligent Power Today Magazine

News and Trends

Introducing Intelligent Power Today

Welcome to Intelligent Power Today Magazine, our publication that explores and explains the who, what, where, when, why and how of intelligent electrical devices, a collection of complex mechanical devices and sophisticated control systems used in industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities—also known as intelligent buildings.

According to the Institute for Building Efficiency, intelligent buildings use smart technologies to improve system functionality, control operating costs, and to keep building occupants safe, secure, comfortable, and, of...

Buyer's Guide

News & Trends

Featured

Advanced protection against electromagnetic exposures and electric arc

HAZARDS AROUND While working live in the energized grid, presence of voltage around the workers requires special attention. However, live-line (live working) techniques are widely applied for decades, several accidents in the past prove that the level of safety must be improved to minimize...

State of Industry

Illuminating Decisions: EPRI Lights the Way for Modern Lighting Adoption

Facility managers and operators understand the critical role lighting plays in their daily operations. Accounting for roughly 30% of a commercial building's energy load, lighting significantly impacts energy consumption and associated maintenance costs. However, focusing solely on the...

Counterfeiting Kills

Each year, the counterfeiting of well-known brands and products continues to rise, creating an even more threatening problem. Such well-known counterfeited brands, including consumer safety and critical electrical products, are estimated to be five to seven percent of world trade. The International...

Building Automation Training

The Balancing Act: Cost Considerations and ROI in BAS

Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer a compelling proposition for building managers, promising enhanced energy efficiency, improved occupant comfort, and streamlined building operations. However, the initial investment cost associated with BAS implementation can be a significant barrier for some. This article explores the cost considerations of building automation systems, examines the potential return on investment (ROI), and discusses strategies to maximize the cost-effectiveness of BAS implementation.

Understanding the Cost Factors: Breaking Down the BAS Budget

The overall cost of implementing a BAS can vary significantly depending on several factors:

Building Size and Complexity: Larger and more complex buildings with diverse functionalities (HVAC, lighting, security, etc.) typically require more sophisticated BAS, driving up costs. This involves a larger number of sensors, actuators, controllers, and software licenses needed to manage the various systems.

System Functionality: The specific features and functionalities integrated into the BAS significantly impact cost. Basic systems focusing on HVAC control...

Communications

The Internet of Things Revolution: Integrating Smart Devices with BAS

Building Automation Systems (BAS) have transformed building management, offering centralized control and automation of various building functions like HVAC, lighting, and security. However, the emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) presents exciting new opportunities for BAS. By integrating...

Energy

Overcoming Integration Hurdles in BAS for Energy Management

Potential and Integration Challenges for Energy Optimization Building Automation Systems (BAS) hold immense promise for optimizing energy consumption in buildings. By intelligently controlling various systems, they can significantly reduce energy waste and improve overall efficiency. However, to...

HVAC

Cloud-Based BAS: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Considerations for Remote Management

Cloud-Based BAS: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Considerations for Remote Management The traditional model of building automation systems (BAS) has involved on-premises servers, software installations, and localized data storage. Cloud-based solutions are disrupting this model, offering the potential...