As a UK computer repair service provider, we’re always on the lookout for the latest technologies that can help our clients save money and energy. And when it comes to buildings, the Internet of Things (IoT) is proving to be a game-changer.
Imagine a world where your building’s systems communicate with each other, constantly optimizing energy use based on real-time data. That’s the power of IoT, and it’s transforming the way we think about energy efficiency. [1]
The Rise of IoT in Buildings
IoT technology is relatively new, only becoming widespread in the last couple of decades. But it’s already making a big impact, with an estimated 50 billion connected devices worldwide as of 2020. [1] These devices collect data that was once accumulated manually or was too difficult to gather.
By connecting everything from lights and HVAC systems to water heaters and security cameras, IoT allows buildings to become “intelligent.” A central building management system (BMS) can then use this data to optimize the building’s operations, helping it run more efficiently. [1]
Automating for Energy Savings
One of the primary benefits of IoT in buildings is its ability to drive automation and, in turn, energy efficiency. [1] With smart sensors gathering data, the BMS can take actions to reduce energy use, such as:
- Turning off lights in unoccupied rooms
- Adjusting HVAC output based on occupancy and weather conditions
- Automatically closing blinds when windows are exposed to direct sunlight
These automated actions can lead to significant savings. For example, studies have shown that IoT-enabled HVAC controllers can reduce energy use by 24%, while smart lighting controls can save between 17-94% compared to manual systems. [1]
Optimizing Building Systems
IoT doesn’t just automate building functions – it also helps optimize their performance. Take HVAC systems, for instance. Traditional HVAC units often operate at a single speed, using dampers and valves to control airflow. [1] This results in a lot of energy waste.
But with IoT-enabled variable speed drives, HVAC fans can run at higher or lower speeds based on the building’s needs. This can translate to energy savings of 15-50%, according to one study. [1] And smart thermostats? They can deliver 10-15% savings on heating and cooling costs. [1]
Predictive Maintenance for Efficiency
IoT’s benefits extend beyond just automation and optimization. By using sensors to monitor building systems and equipment, IoT can also help facility managers stay ahead of maintenance issues. [1]
For example, sensors that track energy consumption patterns can identify anomalies that suggest a piece of equipment is about to fail. This allows managers to address the problem proactively, before it leads to costly downtime and energy waste. [1]
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, predictive maintenance can reduce maintenance costs by 25-30% and extend the life of equipment by 20-40%. [1] And by keeping systems running at peak efficiency, it indirectly contributes to energy savings as well.
The Path to a Greener Future
As we’ve seen, IoT has the potential to transform buildings into true energy-saving powerhouses. By automating systems, optimizing performance, and enabling predictive maintenance, IoT can help reduce a building’s carbon footprint and operating costs.
And the best part? This technology is only going to get better. As AI and machine learning algorithms become more sophisticated, IoT-enabled buildings will be able to learn and adapt to occupants’ needs in real-time. [1]
So if you’re a building owner or facilities manager looking to boost your energy efficiency, it’s time to embrace the power of IoT. Your wallet, and the planet, will thank you.
References
[1] Buildings IOT. (n.d.). Leverage IoT for Energy Efficiency in Building Management. Retrieved from https://www.buildingsiot.com/blog/leverage-iot-for-energy-efficiency-in-building-management-bd
[2] IEEE. (n.d.). Internet of Things (IoT) for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Buildings. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9050775
[3] Meshare Inc. (2021, October 11). Harnessing the Power of IoT to Boost Energy Efficiency in Buildings. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/harnessing-power-iot-boost-energy-efficiency-buildings-meshare-inc
[4] TechTarget. (n.d.). How to use IoT for energy efficiency and sustainability. Retrieved from https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/feature/How-to-use-IoT-for-energy-efficiency-and-sustainability
[5] Softeq. (2022, November 22). How IoT-Based HVAC Systems Help Improve Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings. Retrieved from https://www.softeq.com/blog/how-iot-based-hvac-systems-help-improve-energy-efficiency-in-commercial-buildings
[6] Jia, R., Srinivasan, R. S., Raheem, A. A., & Curry, E. (2019). Forecasting energy consumption in smart buildings: Deep learning architectures for short and medium-term horizons. Energy and Buildings, 203, 109427. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4118407/
[7] International Energy Agency. (2017). Digitalisation and Energy. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/digitalisation-and-energy
