Intelligent Power Today Magazine

News and Trends

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 initial fixture cost misses a crucial aspect of responsible lighting management – the long-term perspective.

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Beyond the Sticker Price: Unveiling the True Cost of Light

Modern lighting solutions promise a...

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...

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...

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...

Building Automation Training

Balancing Investment vs. Savings in BAS for HVAC Systems

Building automation systems (BAS) offer the tantalizing promise of streamlined HVAC operations, increased energy efficiency, and enhanced occupant comfort. However, the upfront investment involved can lead to hesitation among building owners and facility managers. Determining whether the long-term benefits outweigh the initial costs requires a careful examination of both financial metrics and the broader value proposition of an automated HVAC system.

Understanding the Investment

The cost of implementing a BAS for HVAC control depends on several factors. Some of these include:

Building Size and Complexity: Larger buildings with more extensive HVAC networks naturally require a higher investment in sensors, controllers, and the central management platform.

Level of Integration: Integrating the BAS with other building systems such as lighting, security, or fire alarms increases complexity and overall cost.

Age and Condition of Existing Equipment: Retrofitting older HVAC systems with the necessary sensors and actuators for automation compatibility can be more...

Communications

Powering Efficiency: BAS and the Pursuit of Sustainable Buildings

Building Automation Systems (BAS) have revolutionized how buildings operate, transforming them from static structures into dynamic environments that can adapt to changing needs. One of the most compelling applications of BAS lies in its ability to optimize energy consumption, contributing...

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

How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping HVAC Efficiency

Traditionally, HVAC control within building automation systems has relied on rule-based systems and human programmed schedules. These systems, while effective, leave significant room for further optimization. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offers...