What is it?
Energy information systems (EIS) are tools that allow facilities to manage their energy use. They also enable facility staff to better track energy performance.
How does it work?
These systems work similarly to building automation systems and provide energy information to the facility. They consist of both hardware and software components, which monitor, store, and display building energy data on a real-time basis, or more frequently than typical monthly usage data on an energy bill. Some energy information systems also contain analysis capabilities. These capabilities include benchmarking, baseline development, and even more in-depth energy analytics.
What are the most appropriate applications?
The best applications are for facilites larger than 100,000 square feet that are attempting to reduce their energy use. The energy information system will help identify a wide variety of capital and retro-commissioning savings opportunities. However, energy information systems do not save energy by themselves and are best paired with a concerted effort to capture savings by implementing projects. Energy information systems are not recommended if no other energy efforts are planned.
What are the savings?
The savings for energy information systems can vary depending on how the system is used. In a study of 28 buildings, the median energy savings were 17% for individual buildings and 8% for multiple buildings portfolio wide.
What are the non-energy benefits?
These systems increase staff knowledge about their building energy use, which leads to higher engagement and deeper savings overall. The systems can also track projects, assign duties, and identify issues, leading to a reduction in operational management costs.
What is the cost?
Costs have a significant range. A whole building meter and simple software can be below $10,000. However, complex software and extensive sub-metering for a large facility can raise costs much higher. The median cost of a typical system is around $230 a square foot.
What is the status/availability of the technology?
This technology is readily available through multiple vendors.
What kinds of incentives/programs are available?
Right now, this technology does not qualify for an incentive. Instead, projects completed with a system are rebated individually through their respective program.
