Smart tech uses the data generated by connected sensors, software, and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices to automate tasks based on a set of defined parameters. Often powered by artificial intelligence (AI), smart tech is revolutionizing our world, including the way we think about energy efficiency.
Smart tech provides energy users with an ever expanding toolkit they can use to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. Here are a few ways that smart tech can maximize your energy efficiency efforts.
Start small
Smart thermostats use AI algorithms to learn your heating and cooling preferences, giving it the ability to automatically adjust the temperature of your space based on your operating schedule and comfort needs. These smart devices keep your space at just the right level to ensure comfort and efficiency while eliminating after-hours energy waste.
Smart lights offer a similar solution by allowing you to automate when lights turn on or off, dim or change color tone based on room use, time of day, application or other parameters. As a bonus, most smart lights are made with LED technology, which is more efficient and lasts longer than conventional lighting.
Smart occupancy or motion sensors allow you to further automate heating, cooling, and lighting systems so you’re not wasting energy on an empty room.
Smart plugs are another great tool that allow you to reduce wasted energy. In the office, for example, smart plugs allow you to automatically turn off equipment, appliances, and other electrical devices on a set schedule so they’re not drawing power overnight or on weekends when staff have all gone home.
Smart water heaters can also improve the energy efficiency of facility. Unlike traditional water heaters that are designed to always keep water in the tank at a certain temperature, a smart water heater ensures you have hot water only when you need it. Some models use AI algorithms to set a heating schedule based on when and how you use hot water.
Think bigger
A building automation system (BAS) is perhaps a good next step on your energy efficiency journey. Although often associated with larger facilities, today's BAS systems are scalable and affordable for small and mid-sized businesses as well.
Rather than you individually programing individual controls and connected device in an building, a BAS consolidates control allowing you to collectively manage, automate and optimize the real-time energy use of the entire facility. AI-driven algorithms can further optimize the building’s energy use.
Similarly, predictive maintenance uses AI-driven tools to analyze equipment and environmental data to ensure that your equipment is performing up to specification and at its most energy-efficient level.
By taking advantage of the latest technologies, you can reduce your operating costs, improve comfort and convenience and take your business to the next level of energy efficiency.