Understanding Building Energy Management Systems
Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) have come to replace the traditional Building Management Systems (BMS), which primarily focus on controlling systems, that is, simply turning them on and off.
Essentially, BEMS were created with the idea of helping businesses and organizations gain full control over the energy they consume, monitor it, and optimize the use of energy by the building’s services and equipment. It’s a smart network, an advanced technology that integrates real-time data and ensures that a building operates in its most energy-efficient state without compromising user comfort. As we can see, BEMS play a crucial role in managing systems like HVAC, lighting, and other devices, helping users understand their consumption and find ways to improve it.
In short, while traditional BMS may control a building’s environment, they lack comprehensive management and control capabilities. Integrating a BMS into a BEMS creates a stronger approach to building management. But how does it work?
Through sensors embedded throughout the infrastructure, real-time data on various environmental factors are collected. Once the data is gathered, controllers analyze and process it using algorithms to recommend and implement real-time adjustments to HVAC systems and other devices to optimize energy use. Users are also provided with a central platform where they can monitor facilities, receive alerts about issues, and make the appropriate changes. Finally, the communication network ensures seamless data flow between sensors, controllers, and the user interface.
Before installing a BEMS, we must ensure it includes certain functionalities such as:
Fault Detection and Diagnosis (FDD): Enables predictive maintenance by identifying issues before they escalate.
Workflow Automation: Allows the system to automate various processes based on specific criteria and conditions.
Integration with existing systems: Ensures the BEMS can access and analyze data from all connected systems.
Real-time monitoring and analysis: Allows immediate understanding of energy consumption patterns and inefficiencies.
Intuitive user interface: Makes it accessible to all users, regardless of technical expertise.
In summary, BEMS offer a range of benefits that meet modern needs such as energy savings, increased productivity through comfort, cost reduction, and lower CO₂ emissions. At Info Quest Technologies, we have started investing in BEMS and smart buildings through our partnerships, primarily with Cisco and Intelligent Buildings.
