Fighting back against energy prices
August 1st 2006

Alan Aldridge,Director of the Energy Systems Trade Association (ESTA) looks at the issues facing energy managers and suggests that a visit to Energy 2006 would not come amiss

We've now had the Energy Review report and the Climate Change Programme Review.Despite the fixation in the national media about the issue of nuclear power stations, the Government are quite clear that the first step in ensuring security of supply and in safeguarding the environment from climate change is the efficient use of energy.That means ever more effective energy management cutting out wastage, and making the most efficient use of every kilowatt-hour purchased.And of course, from an organisation's point of view, that will have the added benefit of minimising energy bills.The cheapest kWh is the one you don't use.

But there are two trends that militate against efficiency improvements.The first is the technologies are changing.After over 20 years since 'Monergy Year', the Government is still saying that 20% of energy could be saved using cost-effective measures. It is not that we are have made no progress; the fact is that newer technologies like aM&T and lighting controls are making larger savings possible.

The other trend is 'churn'.While for some people, energy management is a lifetime challenge,many others only remain in post for three or five years. It is important for those coming new into the field can grasp the basics quickly; once this is done, it is easier to evaluate the potential benefits of specific technologies.

The fundamentals

That is why ESTA is offering a session about 'Fundamentals of Energy Management' on both afternoons of Energy 2006.This will be led by experts with extensive practical experience and will include: devising an energy policy; assessing present performance levels; implementing cost reduction programmes; and an introduction to the use of on-site renewable energy technologies which are now regarded as a fundamental part of new and refurbishment building projects.

aM&T

Several new technologies are making a significant impact.The first is automatic Monitoring & Targeting or aM&T.This eliminates much of the time-consuming and tedious data collection and inputting that many energy managers have been forced to deal with over the years.A typical aM&T system includes the meters, automatic meter reading and data collection routines,waste analysis, and alarm settings to alert users to excessive consumption. It is a tried and tested technique and one whose effectiveness is formally recognised by the Government: its use qualifies for a carbon allowance in the latest version of the Building Regulations.

Building Energy Management

The latest regulations set more stringent requirements for energy management in both new and refurbished building projects. Understanding the requirements and making the most of the opportunities is vital if energy consumption and emissions are to be kept to a minimum. For example, the use of Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) for motorised equipment, including air conditioning,have procurement implications.Zone controls for closer control over different areas of a building are now required in many projects. Integrating the different aspects of management and control will pay dividends and this session focuses on ways to achieve this.

Lighting controls

As modern buildings have increasingly well-insulated structures, the contribution that equipment makes to overall energy consumption and waste also rises. Lighting is one of the most important. Much has been made of the savings to be achieved from using low energy lamps, but it must be remembered that any lamp that stays on when not needed is still wasting energy! That is why ESTA have been promoting the use of effective lighting controls. Ensuring that lighting operates when and only when needed is an important element of any effective energy management strategy. ESTA's seminar will also cover the important safety issues surrounding the topic.

Compressed air

And we have not forgotten compressed air, either, which for some industrial users is still the most expensive site service! Costs can be cut dramatically by paying attention to process use and leaks, as well as the control and management of compressors against demand.

To see the full programme and enrol, visit:www.esta.org.uk or www.energy2006.co.uk

More articles from ESTA: