Faced with rising energy costs and regulatory requirements such as the tertiary sector decree, how do you detect hidden inefficiencies in buildings? It’s crucial to know how to optimise installations by integrating advanced technologies, while guaranteeing continuous improvement in your energy performance and efficiency.
Understanding energy SCADA to optimise consumption
SCADA involves measuring, analysing and optimising energy consumption in buildings using digital tools. It is based on collecting and processing data in real time to detect waste and improve the energy efficiency of buildings. This approach is part of a continuous improvement process for technical performance.
The benefits of SCADA include measurable energy savings and cost reductions. It also ensures compliance with regulations such as the tertiary sector decree, which requires a gradual reduction in energy consumption. Real-time data analysis makes it easier to identify inefficiencies, while optimised technical management limits the risk of over-consumption and promotes greater energy efficiency.
Technologies and methods for effective SCADA and improved energy efficiency
Building Management Systems (BMS)
Building management systems (BMS) collect data via a network of sensors and actuators, and regulate equipment to optimise its operation and reduce energy consumption. It adjusts heating and air conditioning according to when the premises are occupied, resulting in energy savings of up to 30% according to Energies Dev. This regulation contributes directly to improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
Here are the main components that ensure the correct operation of a BMS system:
- Sensors to measure environmental parameters (temperature, CO2, brightness)
- Actuators to execute commands (valves, thermostats, lighting control)
- Controllers to analyse data and trigger automatic actions
- Communication protocols (BACnet, Modbus) for receiving or sending information
- User interface for viewing measurements and configuring technical management scenarios
Sensors and energy monitoring solutions
Electrical, thermal and motion sensors, coupled with smart meters, enable precise measurement of energy consumption in commercial buildings. IoT technologies such as LoRaWAN and Sigfox ensure reliable transmission of energy data.
Deploying intelligent sensors requires precise mapping of critical measurement points. The sensors must be strategically placed close to major sources of consumption and connected to a reliable network for continuous transmission of energy data to a SCADA platform. Predictive maintenance, facilitated by these sensors, makes it possible to detect anomalies and optimise the reliability of equipment, thereby enhancing the energy efficiency of the building.
Energy SCADA software and platforms
A SCADA platform must offer real-time monitoring, advanced analysis capabilities and seamless integration with existing systems to optimise energy performance. It can identify consumption trends, pinpoint inefficiencies and propose appropriate corrective action. This active SCADA meets the requirements of the BACS decree, ensuring the interoperability of technical equipment and facilitating its control according to the real needs of the building. This automation makes it possible to meet the requirements of the BACS decree on the interoperability of technical systems and to adapt its technical systems.
Methodologies for identifying invisible sources of savings
Energy analysis tools detect abnormal patterns using built-in algorithms. Energy performance indicators measure deviations from standard thresholds, revealing hidden inefficiencies in commercial buildings. Panorama cross-references heterogeneous energy flows to identify interactions between systems. This multi-data correlation reveals invisible drifts, such as those linked to inappropriate settings or opaque technical faults.
Adjusting operating parameters, coupled with predictive analysis, reduces waste without affecting comfort or productivity. Proactive maintenance also helps to reduce unnecessary consumption and increase energy efficiency in the long term. The BACS decree requires the automation of technical systems to guarantee compliance. Managers must integrate standardised communication protocols and data acquisition systems to meet the requirements of article R.241-11 of the French Construction and Housing Code.
Energy SCADA, combining BMS systems, intelligent sensors and advanced data analysis, can identify invisible savings in buildings. By optimising technical installations and complying with regulations, it reduces costs and improves energy performance. A strategic approach, combining innovative technologies and proactive management, guarantees concrete results for more sustainable, energy-efficient commercial buildings.
