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

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...

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...

2024 CE Code Training - Better Understanding of the Rules

CE Code training is intended to do a lot more than instruct about what changes have taken place since the last time Canada issued a national electrical code. We are producing a series of courses across Canada by one of Canada’s leading experts on the 2024 Edition of Canada’s Electrical...

Building Automation Training

Protecting HVAC Systems within a Building Automation Network

In modern buildings, the HVAC system is rarely an isolated entity. Building automation systems (BAS) integrate HVAC components with an array of sensors, controllers, and a central management platform — all connected through networks. This interconnectivity provides significant benefits in terms of optimization and control but also introduces crucial cybersecurity vulnerabilities demanding careful consideration.

HVAC Systems as Targets

While it might not be the primary objective of attackers, HVAC systems within a BAS network present attractive targets for several reasons:

Disruption of Operations: By manipulating HVAC settings, attackers can cause discomfort, potentially force a facility to shut down, or inflict damage to temperature-sensitive equipment.

Entry Point to the Network: Compromised HVAC components can serve as a beachhead to access other, more sensitive parts of a building's network.

Resource Drain (Botnets): Insufficiently secured HVAC devices can be hijacked and assimilated into botnets used for carrying out larger-scale attacks.

Common Vulnerabilities in...

Communications

The Backbone of Building Intelligence: Network Infrastructure and Design for BAS

Building Automation Systems (BAS) rely on a robust and well-designed network infrastructure to ensure seamless communication and reliable data exchange between various building systems and devices. This article delves into the intricacies of network infrastructure for BAS, exploring different...

Energy

Exploring the Rise of Cloud-Based BAS for Enhanced Energy Management

Building Automation Systems (BAS) have become a cornerstone for optimizing energy consumption in buildings. Traditionally, BAS have operated as on-premise systems, with hardware and software located within the building itself. However, the recent surge in cloud-based technologies has led to the...

HVAC

Legacy Systems: Strategies for Integrating Outdated HVAC Equipment into Modern BAS

Building automation offers powerful tools for streamlining HVAC operations, optimizing efficiency, and improving comfort. However, a significant challenge arises when dealing with legacy systems - older HVAC equipment from various generations that might lack the native compatibility necessary for...