Achieving savings and net-zero with real-time energy data

Here’s something you might not know: the average business wastes over 20% of the energy it uses.

That’s a pretty startling statistic.

And it’s not because they’re wasting it on purpose. The reason is the opposite. This wastage is mainly due to not knowing what energy is used and when. But there is a way to reduce or eliminate energy waste entirely: installing real-time data energy meters.

How real-time energy data can help you achieve net-zero

Having good data now will help you to manage and reduce your energy consumption, capitalising on efficiency savings at the earliest opportunity.

It will help target your most carbon intensive operations saving you money in the long term, and help with effective planning and accurate budgeting. It also means that you’ll be able to report accurately through Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) and energy performance standards, including the newly launched NABERS UK, and obtain the accreditations that show your company is committed to contributing to the UK’s decarbonisation agenda.

There are real, tangible needs for accurate energy data on an operational level, but it also delivers value to an organisation – we’ll explore this in the next section.

Sub-metering for landlords and building owners

Sub-metering is used for several purposes, including measuring metering loads of a building, specific lighting, power, heating and cooling energy circuits. But it can also be used in tenanted areas, so tenants only pay for the energy they’re using, rather than an estimate that can result in tenants paying for more than they use while others underpay.

Tips to help you choose the right energy management system

Switching to metering needs planning, so here are a few things you can do to help you choose the right energy management system for you:

1. Devise a strategy

Before you switch, you need to devise a simple metering strategy that takes your current and future energy needs into account.

The infrastructure might not be in place to automatically read and collect the data, so your strategy’s first port of call should be to audit your current energy use and how your system documents it. By doing so, you’ll understand and manage your energy consumption more effectively.

2. See if your current system can be reprogrammed

Instead of pulling out your old meters and replacing them, contact your energy supplier and ask if your current building management system (BMS) can be reprogrammed for collating metering data and optimising energy.

These days, there is technology that works alongside your old building management system that can control certain areas. Be aware that this might not be possible for your system, but you could save yourself money just by asking.

3. Shop around for the best BMS price

If you need to install a new BMS, they don’t have to cost you ridiculous amounts. Do your research and look out for real-time energy control devices you can connect to office equipment or heating systems.

Need help?

Detecting avoidable energy waste that would otherwise remain hidden?
Identifying areas of excessive energy usage, and execute plans to make savings?
Quantifying savings achieved in real time?
Accurately measuring current energy usage – down to equipment level – to see where to make quick savings?
Repaying your investment in under 1 year?

Then why not speak to the team at Inteb?