What Is an Energy Management System?
An Energy Management System is a system designed to monitor and control energy usage.
Specifically, it visualizes the usage of energy (mainly electricity) in places such as factories, office buildings, and homes, identifies inefficiencies in electricity usage (both in terms of time and location), and optimally controls power consumption. In the case of factories, it is utilized to monitor and control the power consumption of lighting, air conditioning, and machinery, allowing for a comprehensive understanding and optimization of power usage, ultimately reducing overall electricity consumption.
Furthermore, a comprehensive understanding allows for reducing basic charges and can be employed for demand control.
Uses of Energy Management System (EMS)
Energy Management Systems are increasingly used with the primary purpose of introducing the optimal utilization of renewable energy (such as solar and wind power) for preventing global warming and achieving carbon neutrality, contributing to the enhancement of corporate value.
In cases involving the use of renewable energy, where shortcomings like the instability of power generation exist, optimal monitoring and control are essential to compensate for these issues. The use of appropriately sized batteries according to the purpose enables optimal utilization. While solar power generation has become widespread through the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) system, there is a growing focus on self-consumption-type solar power generation. Schemes like Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) without initial investment are emerging, making renewable energy a continued influential choice.
Principle of Energy Management System (EMS)
Operational equipment and facilities are connected to a central monitoring system (computer) via a network to acquire data (pulses) for monitoring and control purposes.
In cases of using renewable energy, such as solar power, wind power, and biomass, along with storage batteries, each power generation device and storage battery are monitored. This enables the overall control to ensure a stable power supply. When generating more power than consumed, the excess is stored in the batteries. In times of insufficient power generation, the stored power is supplied, or power is purchased from a power supply company. These predetermined controls are implemented to ensure proper management.
Types of Energy Management System (EMS)
The nomenclature of EMS changes based on its application. Examples include:
- HEMS (Home Energy Management System): For residential use
- FEMS (Factory EMS): For factory use
- BEMS (Building EMS): For office building use
Moreover, when utilizing renewable energy, there are systems compiled by companies specializing in solar power, wind power, and biomass, battery-centric systems, distribution system-centric systems, and systems compiled by power supply companies.
How to Choose an Energy Management System (EMS)
Choosing an Energy Management System is crucial and should follow a process like the one outlined below:
1. Clarification of Issues
Understand energy usage patterns and identify areas requiring improvement. Specific goals and challenges, such as reducing electricity consumption waste or peak power reduction, should be clearly defined.
2. Partner Selection
Select a partner with expertise in energy management. Evaluate their track record, technical capabilities, service quality, and breadth, and choose a partner that aligns with the company’s needs.
3. Design and Construction
Collaborate with the selected partner to create a concrete plan for the design and construction of the EMS. Select, install, and configure the system according to the facility’s characteristics and requirements.
4. Operation and Improvement
After implementing the EMS, regularly monitor and analyze data to evaluate energy usage and its effects. Consider optimization and improvements in maintenance and operations as needed. Continuously strive for improvement. Share challenges and goals with the chosen partner, and receive proposals and designs for the EMS tailored to the company’s needs. Through collaboration with a partner aligned with the company’s needs, choose an effective Energy Management System.