Rockwell-automation Energy Management Accelerator Toolkit Quick Start User Manual download pdf (Page 23)

Rockwell Automation Publication IASIMP-QS016C-EN-P - October 2014 23

Energy Assessment and Monitoring Methods Chapter 1

Business Case for Energy Monitoring

Energy monitoring makes energy usage data visible so that it is included in the planning and execution of a business strategy

along with other management information. Because utility bills can be a significant portion of business expense, it is

important to understand how energy is used. Implementing a monitoring plan will help your business set goals for energy

reduction that will translate into cost savings.

Typical energy users evolve through a number of energy awareness phases.

Ignorance is Expensive

In the first phase, energy is not considered a significant expense or important management information. Operations uses

energy and accounts payable pays for it. Management begins to notice the higher costs and sets goals for energy reduction.

If operation managers are not aware of the energy cost of their operations, energy savings will not be captured.

Metering the Envelope

In the second phase, energy monitoring is installed on the plant main feeds. Electricity, natural gas, water, and other feeds

are recorded. The investment is relatively low. The monitoring system generates shadow bills to verify the utility billing.

Major users of energy are identified. The relationship between operating schedules and plant demand becomes clearer. A

few energy saving opportunities are identified and cost savings generated. However, monitoring only the entire plant has

limitations addressed in the next phase.

Submetering the Processes

In this phase, submeters are installed on process lines and utility equipment such as air, compressors, and boilers. This phase

requires a higher level of investment but provides a more detailed view of energy usage. Reports run daily or weekly provide

a direct line of sight to the impact of operations decisions. Energy use can be correlated with key production indicators to

identify peak producers and opportunities for improvement. Operations can be benchmarked within a plant or across an

enterprise. More cost-saving opportunities are identified. Historical data is used to accurately forecast energy use, providing

the basis for negotiating more favorable rates from energy providers. The same data is used in justifying capital projects to

improve efficiency and further reduce energy usage, cost, and waste. Energy accountability grows.

Controlling Energy Use and Demand

The volume and accuracy of energy use information gathered in the preceding phases is useful in determining the next

steps. Perhaps an automated demand control system would be effective in increasing energy efficiency and sustainability.

Opportunities for heat recovery and onsite generation may be identified. Potential trouble spots might be avoided that

would minimize unnecessary downtime.

1 2 ... 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 ... 451 452

No comments

Rockwell-automation Energy Management Accelerator Toolkit Quick Start User Manual Page 23