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Celebrating World Environment Day

Celebrating World Environment Day

Published
18 June 2024

On June 5th we celebrated World Environment Day which serves as a crucial reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve our planet.  

Throughout history, human activities have altered the Earth’s ecosystems, leading to unprecedented levels of environmental degradation. From deforestation to the rampant use of fossil fuels, our actions have far-reaching consequences for the planet and future generations.  

But there is a light in this tunnel. Amidst these challenges lies the opportunity for positive change and a chance for us to come together to solve what may be the most challenging issue facing our generation: Climate Change.  

This act of coming together is exactly what World Environment Day celebrates. We are encouraging individuals, communities, governments, and businesses to join forces and explore sustainable solutions to environmental issues. 

At Optimum Energy we take great pride in knowing we get to be part of that solution. We feel incredibly fortunate to come to work every day and make a positive impact on the global environment. This passion for sustainability is embedded in the very DNA of our organization and as such we asked our team members to share what World Environment Day means to them: 

“Optimum Energy has prevented a whopping 3.5+ BILLION pounds of CO2 from being released into our atmosphere! This is a huge win for our planet and a testament to our partners and their commitment to sustainability. Let’s keep up the great work and continue to make a positive impact for everyone on the planet. Here’s to a greener, cleaner future!”

– Larry Stapleton, CEO

“With atmospheric levels of CO2 at an all-time high, I’m honored to work for a company with a mission to reduce building emissions all over the world. When today’s consumers and regulatory systems are hyper-focused on corporate carbon footprints, Optimum Energy helps companies get closer to net zero. Optimizing HVAC infrastructure with intelligent software to reduce emissions is a super approachable concept for businesses to lean into. It’s a simple approach to a radical idea of clean air, AND it saves companies millions of dollars annually. ” 

– Kay John, Senior Project Manager for Optimum Energy 

As we celebrate World Environment Day 2024, let us renew our commitment to protecting our planet and building a sustainable future for all. By embracing sustainable solutions and working together, we can create a world where nature thrives, and future generations can thrive alongside it.  

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Facilities managers, security officers, and executives are tasked with a myriad of responsibilities such as optimizing energy efficiency, ensuring the comfort and safety of occupants, and protecting their assets and investments.
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The Crucial Nexus: Trust and Cybersecurity in Operations

The Crucial Nexus: Trust and Cybersecurity in Operations

Published
01 June 2024

Facilities managers, security officers, and executives are tasked with a myriad of responsibilities such as optimizing energy efficiency, ensuring the comfort and safety of occupants, and protecting their assets and investments. In the modern era, where technology underpins nearly every aspect of a business’s operations, the importance of trust and cybersecurity cannot be overstated. This article explores the critical relationship between trust and cybersecurity in operations.

 I. The Inextricable Link: Trust and Cybersecurity

Trust is the cornerstone of any successful business. In the realm of operations, trust is the assurance that the systems and equipment will perform reliably, efficiently, and safely. It encompasses the belief that the technology supporting the operation will not fail or pose any risk to the occupants and the environment. There is also a large degree of trust that is built between service and parts providers and the company running the building or facility. This trust is paramount as facilities managers are typically not installing, repairing, or providing support diagnostics for every component or system. They rely on building optimization providers to ensure that chillers are operating within normal parameters, sensors are providing reliable data points, and their building management systems (BMS) are optimizing their building operations.

Cybersecurity, on the other hand, is the foundation upon which this trust is built. It is a set of practices, technologies, and protocols designed to protect digital systems, data, and the entire operation from malicious intent or inadvertent breaches. In today’s world, where building systems have become more sophisticated and interconnected, the relationship between trust and cybersecurity is particularly critical.

II. The Vulnerabilities in Building Operations

HVAC systems and other building management devices are no longer standalone mechanical devices; they are now an integral part of building management systems (BMS). Modern HVAC systems have sensors, controllers, and connected devices that enable remote monitoring, control, and automation. While this advancement provides numerous benefits, it also opens the door to vulnerabilities.

Cyberattacks on Building Automation Systems

With the proliferation of interconnected systems, Building Management Systems have become attractive targets. This has been the case with companies like Target in 2013 when they suffered a massive data breach. Attackers gained access to Target’s computer network and stole financial and personal information. [1]The full report from the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation can be found here.

IoT Devices and Weaknesses

IoT devices can be known for their inherent weaknesses when it comes to security. Many IoT devices are not adequately protected, making them easy entry points for hackers. These devices often lack firmware updates, have default passwords, and are susceptible to common attack methods. In 2019 Amazon’s Ring cameras were breached and reports of customers being hacked were popping up globally (Read the court hearing here). [2] Amazon provided a security patch that has since shored up the problem.

Human Error

With all the security in the world, companies can never forget about the human element. While firewalls and anti-virus software can continually buffet outside attacks with relative success, employees who unknowingly click on a phishing email can open the door wide open to security breaches. There are many examples of this occurring, robust and frequent security training is paramount for today’s companies to stay secure. Moss Adams, an IT and Cybersecurity Consulting Firm, goes into greater depth on the risks of human error in their article “How to Identify Top Cybersecurity Threats and Protect your Organization”.[3]

III. Building a Trustworthy System

While all these vulnerabilities are frightening to think about, operations managers and security officers can take some steps to ensure their operations remain secure.

First, businesses must also develop strong relationships with their service providers to ensure security is a cornerstone of the products and services they provide as these products and services are directly linked to the company’s facilities.

Building Optimization providers like Optimum Energy (OE) are committed to continuing to provide first-in-class security procedures and policies for its clients and stakeholders.

Risk Assessment and Management

Identifying and understanding the risks associated with building systems is the first step. Facilities managers in conjunction with their BMS provider should conduct a comprehensive risk assessment, considering factors such as the type of equipment, its connectivity, and the potential consequences of a breach. With this information, they can develop a risk management plan that outlines security measures and incident response procedures. For providers like Optimum Energy, these policies and procedures are built into OE’s products and services.

Implement Strong Access Controls

Access controls ensure that only authorized personnel can modify building system settings. To enhance access security, use strong authentication methods, like two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, regularly review and update user access privileges to limit the potential damage in case of a breach.  

Encryption and Data Protection

Operational data, such as temperature and humidity settings, are not required to be encrypted. But any sensitive data such as healthcare, personal identifiable information (PII), and payment information should be encrypted during transmission and storage. This prevents attackers from intercepting or tampering with data as it flows between devices and control systems. Security managers should establish data retention policies to minimize exposure in case of a breach. It is also imperative that facility or security managers understand how their BMS provider is handling their data. Providers like Optimum Energy provide redundancies within their data centers that keep their client’s data secure and untampered.

Continuous Monitoring and Response

Real-time monitoring of operational systems is essential to detect anomalies and potential security breaches. A strong BMS provider typically has an intrusion detection system (IDS) and/ or third-party security services to monitor network traffic and system behavior 24/7. In the event of an incident, having a well-defined incident response plan in place is crucial to minimize damage and downtime.

High Standards for Service Providers

While building optimization providers should be highlighting their cybersecurity prowess and certifications, facilities managers also have a responsibility to ask questions about security and trust. Service and BMS providers should be equipped with various cyber security certifications and have a robust risk management plan to ensure that if an attack does occur, their software or hardware is blocking the malware or attack.

Providers like Optimum Energy’s commitment to security is emphasized by their SOC2 Type 1 certification. This mark of compliance indicates OE’s commitment to strong data transfer controls and security of customer data. This type of certification requires periodic audits, proving that a building optimization provider meets the industry’s highest standards of security and data protection.

IV. Conclusion

Trust and cybersecurity are inextricably linked in the world of operations. A breach in the security of a building’s systems can result in dire consequences, including financial losses and reputational damage. Businesses and service providers must prioritize cybersecurity as an integral part of their operations to maintain the trust of stakeholders, ensuring that building systems and business operations function reliably and securely. 

Building Optimization providers like Optimum Energy provide not only cutting-edge solutions, but security infrastructure and protocols designed to protect its systems and, by extension, their client’s interests. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where building systems continue to become more interconnected and sophisticated, the onus is on operations managers, security officers, and service providers to stay ahead of potential threats and vulnerabilities. By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, facilities managers can build a foundation of trust in their building systems that not only safeguards the facility and its occupants but also enhances operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the long run.

[1] https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/24d3c229-4f2f-405d-b8db-a3a67f183883

[2] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/16630199/1/orange-v-ring-llc/

[3] https://www.mossadams.com/articles/2021/09/identify-top-cyberthreats

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Honoring the Backbone of Efficiency on World Facility Management Day

Honoring the Backbone of Efficiency on World Facility Management Day

Published
15 May 2024

Every May, the world celebrates World Facility Management Day. It is a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role facility management professionals play in ensuring the efficiency, functionality, and safety of buildings across the world.  

Facility management is a multifaceted discipline that touches virtually every aspect of our daily lives, from the office buildings where we work to the hospitals where we receive care, the schools where we learn, and the stadiums where we gather for entertainment. You cannot get through the day without benefiting from their tireless efforts.  

World Facility Management Day provides a platform for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of facility management teams worldwide. Whether it is implementing innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency, maintaining occupant comfort through thoughtful design and programming, or responding swiftly and effectively to unforeseen challenges, facility managers demonstrate resilience, creativity, and ingenuity in their daily practices.  

As we celebrate World Facility Management Day, Optimum Energy would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to the resolute professionals who work tirelessly to keep our built environments running smoothly. Your partnership and dedication to your craft is unparalleled and we are grateful to work in such a tremendous field! 

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Optimum Energy’s Retro-Commissioning Services Offer Significant Building-Side Savings

Optimum Energy’s Retro-Commissioning Services Offer Significant Building-Side Savings

Published
15 May 2024

The operation of mechanical and building automation systems play a crucial role in maintaining comfortable and compliant spaces. Over time building operations can become inefficient due to factors such as aging equipment, outdated controls sequences, and changing operational needs. 

Optimum Energy’s Engineering Solutions group provides the expertise and technical resources to design and implement all Retro-Commissioning and BAS Upgrade services. Optimum has developed a process that comprehensively and systematically optimizes the performance of existing building systems to ensure they operate at peak efficiency.  

Retro-Commissioning focuses on existing buildings and can deliver substantial benefits including energy savings, improved comfort, extended equipment life and reduced maintenance costs.  Typically, our Retro-Commissioning services payback between 12 and 18 months. This makes it an invaluable investment for facility teams, and offers another path to funding projects that otherwise would have been out of budget.   

By conducting a detailed assessment of your facilities, controls sequences, and operational parameters, our Retro-Commissioning experts can identify opportunities for optimization and implement interventions to improve performance and drive savings. 

As your organization seeks to navigate the complexities of sustainable building management, our Retro-Commissioning services offer a proven pathway to improved efficiency, reduced operating costs, and enhanced sustainability. 

We would love to discuss if Retro-Commissioning could be a tool that would benefit you and your team. Please reach out to Alex Lee at alex.lee@optimumenergyco.com to discuss further.   

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Optimum Energy Celebrates Remarkable Hall of Fame Award Winner 

Optimum Energy Celebrates Remarkable Hall of Fame Award Winner 

Published
10 May 2024

When it comes to innovation and excellence, there are organizations who not only set the standard but continually set the bar higher and inspire others along the way. Today, we proudly honor one such organization who has shown unwavering dedication to the optimization of their facilities– our esteemed Hall of Fame Award winner, Clemson University. 

“After spending the last several years working with Matt Holbrook and team, I can proudly say that the group at Clemson University are amongst the best in the world. They not only meet the highest level of standards for facilities management, but continuously raise the bar and improve the quality of life for those on campus. Because of this, it is only fitting we induct Clemson University into our Optimum Hall of Fame for their continued commitment to optimization throughout their facilities.”

-Larry Stapleton, CEO

At Optimum Energy, we are not just a company. We are a community of visionaries, innovators, and trailblazers committed to shaping a future powered by clean, safe and healthy technologies. Every year, we have the privilege of recognizing an organization that embodies this same spirit, and this year’s recipient truly stands out among the brightest stars! 

Clemson University has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to excellence in energy optimization and facilities management. Their work embodies the values that are at the core of Optimum Energy – operational efficiency, business continuity, asset management and a relentless pursuit of excellence. They are not just leaders in their field; they are mentors, collaborators, champions of progress, and now, members of the Optimum Energy Hall of Fame. 

As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Clemson University. To our Hall of Fame Award winner – thank you for inspiring us, challenging us, and reminding us of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. We are honored to have you as part of the Optimum community, and we look forward to continuing this journey together towards a brighter, more sustainable future! 

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Optimum Energy Celebrates Earth Day 

Optimum Energy Celebrates Earth Day 

Published
16 April 2024

Every year on April 22nd, people around the world come together to celebrate Earth Day. This time can be used to recognize our planet’s beauty while acknowledging its fragility. It is also the perfect time to renew our commitment to protecting our planet for future generations.  

One of the most pressing issues facing our planet today is climate change. The Earth is changing at an unprecedented rate because of human activities like burning fossil fuels, transportation, deforestation, and industrial agriculture. The consequences of these modern practices can be seen in climate shifts worldwide.  

While we need to understand our impact, Earth Day is also an opportunity to celebrate the progress we have made and the innovative solutions that exist as answers to the problems mentioned. Across the globe, individuals, communities, businesses, and governments are taking meaningful steps to reduce their carbon footprint, just like you 

Your continued partnership with Optimum Energy is making a massive impact in the fight against climate change. Lifetime, our partners reduced the CO2 output of their facilities by over 3,550,000,000 lbs. 

This Earth Day, let us recommit ourselves to protecting our plant. As we look ahead on both the challenges and the opportunities before us, let us be motivated by the words of environmentalist and author Rachel Carson: “In nature, nothing exists alone.” By working together, we will ensure a healthier, more vibrant planet for generations to come.  

Thank you for all your partnership and Happy Earth Day! 

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Elevating Your Optimization Experience: Introducing Our New Technical Success Department

Elevating Your Optimization Experience: Introducing Our New Technical Success Department

Published
16 April 2024

Optimum Energy is thrilled to announce the launch of our Technical Success Department. This addition underscores our unwavering commitment to not just meeting, but exceeding, your expectations. At Optimum Energy, we believe in building lasting relationships with our customers, and this department represents a significant step forward in ensuring your satisfaction and success. 
 
So, what exactly is Technical Success, and why is it so important? 
 
It’s about proactively engaging with you, our valued customers, to understand your unique needs and challenges, and providing tailored solutions and touchpoints to help you achieve your goals.  

Our team is built upon the five pillars of Technical Success: 

Personalized Support: Our dedicated team of Technical Success Managers will work closely with you to understand your goals, business objectives and how we can best support you in achieving them. Whether you’re a new customer just getting started or a long-time partner looking to optimize your use of our software and services, our team will be there every step of the way to provide personalized guidance and support. 
 
Proactive Problem-Solving: Instead of waiting for issues to arise, our Technical Success team will work proactively to identify and address any potential roadblocks to your success. We partner closely with our Support department to monitor your data so we can communicate opportunities to drive further savings or provide timely solutions when an issue arises. All of this is done with one goal in mind- helping you exceed your annual goals.    

Building Stronger Relationships: At the heart of Technical Success is the belief that strong relationships are the key to long-term success. By investing in our Technical Success Department, we are not just providing better support; we are deepening our commitment to building lasting partnerships with each and every one of our customers. 
 
Continuous Improvement: Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to continuously improving and evolving our efforts based on your feedback. Our Technical Success team will serve as a direct line of communication between you and our internal teams, ensuring that your voice is heard and that we are always striving to deliver the best possible service and solutions.  
 
Maximizing ROI: We understand that investing in Optimum Energy is a significant decision for your business. Our Technical Success team is dedicated to helping you maximize the return on your investment by ensuring that you are getting the most value out of our offerings and helping you achieve your goals. We will be closely monitoring the optimization levels for your location and proactively communicating any opportunities to drive additional savings. 
We will be transitioning your accounts in a very structured way to make sure that you receive the white glove treatment you deserve. In the coming weeks and months, you can expect to hear more from our Technical Success team as they reach out to introduce themselves and learn more about how we can best support you. We are incredibly excited about this new chapter in our journey and are confident that it will lead to even greater success for all of us. 

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Facilities managers, security officers, and executives are tasked with a myriad of responsibilities such as optimizing energy efficiency, ensuring the comfort and safety of occupants, and protecting their assets and investments.
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Quarterly Award Winners, Q1 2024

Quarterly Award Winners, Q1 2024

Published
15 April 2024

Quarterly Award Winners Achieve Remarkable Savings with Optimum Energy!

In the realm of corporate achievements, there are milestones that stand out not just for their significance but for the profound impact they have on an organization’s trajectory. Every quarter we honor our partners for their exceptional efforts in using our technologies to achieve great things in their organizations. Today we highlight those with the most significant operational savings across their facilities over the last 12 months. Collectively, these awards recipients have saved $12.5 million.

At Optimum Energy, we always strive for excellence in all aspects of our operations, and our commitment to efficiency, cost reduction and sustainability is no exception. Every quarter, we recognize partner organizations who are leaders in their pursuits of excellence, and this quarter’s award winners have truly set a new standard!

With unwavering discipline and innovative thinking, our award winners have leveraged their Optimum Energy technology and spearheaded a series of optimization initiatives aimed at reducing energy costs within the organizations. Their efforts have not only resulted in significant financial savings but have also transitioned into a reduction of their organization’s carbon footprint.

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our quarterly award winners. Your dedication, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made a tangible difference. We are incredibly grateful for your efforts!

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The Evolution of Smart Building Technology: A Focus on HVAC Systems in Commercial Buildings

The Evolution of Smart Building Technology: A Focus on HVAC Systems in Commercial Buildings

Published
06 November 2023

In today’s rapidly advancing world, smart building technology is transforming the way we design, construct, and manage our buildings and facilities. Among the many innovations within this field, the integration of smart HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems is playing a pivotal role in enhancing energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and overall building sustainability. In this article, we will explore the current state of smart building technology with a specific focus on HVAC systems and controls in commercial buildings, and their integration into other smart building systems.

The Growing Importance of Smart HVAC Systems

The HVAC systems in hospitals, data centers, universities, and other commercial buildings have long been critical for maintaining optimal indoor air quality, comfort, and energy efficiency. However, as energy costs and environmental concerns have become more prominent, there is a growing need for smarter, more efficient HVAC solutions. This has led to a significant shift towards integrating technology and data analytics into HVAC systems, transforming them into smart, dynamic, and responsive entities.

Modernizing HVAC equipment

Chillers, compressors, evaporators, heat exchanges, and ducts are just some of the components that go into a commercial HVAC system. They are responsible for cooling water which is then distributed throughout the building to maintain a comfortable temperature, among other tasks that adjust and dial in the airflow and quality of a building. These components have typically operated in a fixed, inefficient manner, using constant energy regardless of the actual cooling demands. However, the integration of smart technology is changing this paradigm.

Today with the integration of sensors, readers and IoT devices as well as the ability to connect all these devices to the cloud has transformed traditional HVAC systems into modern systems that are smarter, more efficient and allow for a greater level of precision and control. Now facilities managers can monitor and make adjustments to individual HVAC components based on real time data insight and smart recommendations. This translates into major energy savings as well as better preventative maintenance measures.

Smart Building Systems: The Backbone of Modern Building Management

Smart building systems are the cornerstone of large commercial buildings seeking to optimize their HVAC operations. These systems encompass a wide range of technologies, including building automation systems (BAS), data analytics, and cloud-based platforms, all aimed at creating a cohesive and efficient building ecosystem.

BAS, also known as building management systems (BMS), have been around for some time, but recent advancements have made them more powerful and user-friendly. These systems can control and monitor various building functions, including HVAC, lighting, security, and more. They serve as the central nervous system of a smart building, collecting data from sensors and other devices and translating it into actionable insights.

The integration of smart HVAC systems with BAS allows for real-time monitoring and control of HVAC equipment. When temperature or occupancy conditions change, the BAS can automatically adjust settings to optimize energy use and maintain occupant comfort. This level of automation is essential in large commercial buildings, where the HVAC load can vary significantly throughout the day. While BAS and smart HVAC systems aren’t new to the scene, the uptick in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have opened the door for a whole new level of optimization for Smart Building Systems.

Data Analytics and Machine Learning:

The availability of big data and machine learning algorithms has revolutionized the way we analyze and manage HVAC systems in buildings, plants, and facilities. Data analytics platforms can process vast amounts of data collected from various building sensors and systems. This data is then used to identify patterns, inefficiencies, and opportunities for optimization.

Machine learning algorithms take this analysis a step further by predicting future HVAC system performance and suggesting adjustments in real time. For example, suppose a machine learning algorithm detects that a chiller is running inefficiently or that a particular part is likely to fail soon. In that case, it can alert facility managers and suggest preventive maintenance measures or a change to the operation of the chiller.

Cloud-Based Platforms:

Not only has Data Analytics and ML transformed the smart building landscape but cloud integration has also significantly expanded the capabilities of smart building systems by providing a centralized, scalable, and secure platform for data storage and analysis. With data stored in the cloud, building managers can access real-time information and make informed decisions from anywhere with an internet connection.

Cloud-based platforms also facilitate remote monitoring and control of HVAC systems. Facility managers can adjust settings, receive alerts, and analyze data through a user-friendly interface, improving efficiency and reducing the need for on-site personnel. This level of remote access is particularly beneficial for large commercial buildings with multiple locations or facilities.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

As mentioned previously, one of the primary motivations behind the adoption of smart building technology, especially in HVAC systems, is the pursuit of energy efficiency and sustainability. Large commercial buildings are significant contributors to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and improving their energy performance is an economic and environmental imperative.

The integration of smart HVAC systems and chillers plays a crucial role in reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints. By adjusting operations based on real-time data, these systems can minimize energy waste, lower operating costs, and decrease environmental impacts. In addition to energy savings, smart HVAC systems can enhance indoor air quality and occupant comfort, contributing to a healthier and more productive working environment.

Challenges and Considerations

While the adoption of smart building technology is promising, it is not without its challenges and considerations. Facility managers and building owners must address several key factors to implement these systems successfully:

Cost Considerations:

The initial investment in smart building technology, including the installation of sensors, controllers, and data analytics platforms, can be substantial. However, it is essential to consider these costs within the context of long-term savings in energy consumption and operational efficiency. Many governments and organizations also offer incentives and rebates for adopting energy-efficient technologies. Companies like Optimum Energy are beginning to look into Energy as a Service offering to cover those initial investments (stay tuned for future content on this topic).

Integration and Compatibility:

Integrating various smart building components, including HVAC systems, with existing infrastructure can be complex. It is crucial to ensure compatibility between different systems and components, as well as scalability for future expansion. Optimum Energy’s OptiCx platform not only integrates seamlessly with existing smart building components, but it also is adaptable and modular, allowing for future expansion. Visit our website to learn more about OptiCx.

Data Security and Privacy:

As more data is collected and stored in the cloud, the issue of data security and privacy becomes paramount. Building owners and facility managers must implement robust security measures to protect sensitive information and comply with data protection regulations. With Optimum Energy all our products, services, and providers are AICPA SOC certified to ensure your platform and building are safe from malicious actors. Learn more about Optimum Energy’s cybersecurity standards here.

Training and Maintenance:

Proper training for personnel and maintenance of smart building systems are critical for their ongoing success. Facility managers should be well-versed in the operation of these systems and be prepared to address issues promptly to avoid downtime. At Optimum Energy our support services ensure that you get your questions answered quickly and our HVAC operations experts and energy engineers are always available to support your building needs. With Optimum Energy’s deep seeded knowledge we can tackle all of these challenges and ensure success in your smart building transformations and updates.

User Experience:

The user experience of smart building technology is essential for its successful adoption. User-friendly interfaces and clear communication of the benefits of these systems can help ensure that building occupants are on board with the changes.

Conclusion

Smart building technology is revolutionizing the way we manage buildings. By leveraging the latest technology, users can enhance HVAC systems with advanced building automation and data analytics all from a centralized cloud-based platform, allowing building owners and facility managers to optimize their buildings energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve occupant comfort.

The evolution of smart building technology is an essential step in addressing the challenges of energy consumption and environmental sustainability in large commercial buildings. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative solutions and increased adoption of these systems to create smarter, more sustainable, and more comfortable buildings for the future.

Cloud-Connected HVAC Systems Are at the Core of Smart Facilities

Cloud-Connected HVAC Systems Are at the Core of Smart Facilities

Published
18 October 2023

By Ian Dempster

You can’t have a smart facility without a connected HVAC system.

Facilities become intelligent only to the extent that their operators collect, analyze, and learn from the massive amounts of information flowing from building systems and equipment. HVAC data is fundamental, given that the system typically accounts for 44 percent of a commercial building’s energy consumption and is central to occupant comfort and, for many manufacturers, product quality. And that makes connecting the HVAC system to a cloud-based data center a crucial aspect of creating a smart facility.

Simply optimizing an HVAC system can yield substantial savings, reducing its energy usage and resulting costs by 20 to 50 percent (30 percent is typical). But without ongoing monitoring, those results will start to degrade after about a year or so. A two-way data flow between a facility’s HVAC equipment and building automation system (BAS) and an optimization provider’s network operations center enables real-time monitoring, analysis, maintenance, and fine-tuning of the HVAC system. It’s the only way to maintain the efficiencies gained through an HVAC system upgrade, and to gain ongoing insights into a facility’s performance.

Unconnected Systems Lose Their Edge

In the first year after optimization, results may remain constant without cloud connectivity. By the second year, typically, equipment begins to age and the facilities team probably has changed settings in the BAS, causing savings to fall off. By the third year without cloud connectivity, a site can lose as much as half of its original carbon and cost savings through natural system performance degradation and operational overrides. Without the external “brain” a cloud connection provides, the falloff can go unnoticed for quite a while, costing the facility thousands of dollars.

Establishing a two-way connection between an HVAC plant and an optimization provider can be a project, but it is getting easier: new chillers, pumps, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and even smart actuators are now designed to connect with control software and upload data to the cloud, enabling ongoing monitoring and system optimization. A facilities manager can collect and share BAS and environmental management system (EMS) data, which can reveal where the facility is consuming the most energy, whether the equipment is working correctly and efficiently, and if the automation sequence is controlling the HVAC system effectively.

At the same time, the optimization provider can watch for failing components, mechanical drift, changes in ambient conditions, and other fluctuations in the HVAC system. In response, they can access the installed optimization solution, use the data to troubleshoot the equipment, improve sequencing, and adapt set points to meet environmental parameters as they change. They can also remotely install software updates that can increase efficiencies or reliability.

Security and Product Quality Take Precedence

Connecting a BAS and EMS to an optimization provider’s data center raises network security concerns for any building or facility IT team. And for facilities with strict environmental requirements—hospitals, labs, pharmaceutical manufacturing plants—ensuring precise temperature and humidity controls is paramount. Both types of challenges require careful, collaborative information systems engineering.

The first step is to implement robust security separations between networks used for BAS sensors and monitoring, and those used for business transactions. This ensures that intellectual property, financial information, and other business-related data remain siloed from operational data.

A security-conscious optimization provider will then work with the facility’s IT team to establish a site-to-site virtual private network (VPN) tunnel between single points—a secure, private connection linking designated devices—that provides strong encryption with unique keys and access controls that give the optimization provider’s engineers access only to operational data for energy management and optimization services. In addition, the optimization software should be installed with intrusion detection, secure network connectivity, and limited user permissions. For next-level security, some vendors offer a security appliance that creates the secure VPN tunnel connection between the optimization software and the vendor’s cloud servers, using standard outbound secure ports only. That avoids the need to set up a link from the company’s network.

Where the building environment affects product quality or core operations, facility managers may worry about automated controls, believing that a hands-on approach is the only way to maintain the correct operational parameters. That’s a sure way to lose the benefits of optimization and building intelligence over time, though. The vendor should work with facility operators to fine-tune optimization settings with both efficiency and environmental needs in mind, and provide training on how the optimization system works.

Getting Connectivity Right Brings Rewards

The benefits of cloud connectivity make it well worth the effort to establish the appropriate security setup. First and foremost is the assurance of continual energy-use and cost reductions. For example, we’ve seen an 18-million-square-foot university campus improve the efficiency of its chiller plants by 23 percent. Every year, the facility is saving more than $1 million due to the cloud-connected optimization software. We’ve also seen a 110,000-square-foot research laboratory improve its efficiency more than 27 percent by optimizing and connecting the chiller plant. Hershey Medical Center in Pennsylvania is saving more than $300,000 a year using connected optimization software, which reduced facility energy use by 4 GWh annually and improved system efficiency by 21 percent.

Sharing operational data via the cloud also provides greater visibility into HVAC, BAS, and EMS systems, leading to better control over the equipment. A two-way data flow enables full access to the analytics software as well as the HVAC equipment from any location. The facility manager can check on the chiller, for example, from home first thing in the morning, and the optimization vendor can remotely troubleshoot the system right down to its individual components. Even mechanical problems can get fixed much faster, because repair people know in advance what isn’t working.

Additionally, cloud connectivity allows the transfer and storage of large amounts of operational data cheaply and securely off-site.

Even Smarter Systems Are on the Horizon

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are poised to enable even better control of HVAC systems. With data sequencing, archived data, and efficiency and building energy models, optimization and analytic software can learn how various pieces of equipment respond to different conditions and can tell the BAS how to most efficiently run the HVAC system in real time, or even predict the best equipment to use in future conditions.

Automatic optimization through machine learning could increase savings—we’re already starting to see companies gain an additional 5 to 7 percent efficiency improvement through machine learning programs added onto their optimization platforms. One example is dynamic sequencing, which determines the most efficient combinations of equipment to run, taking into account system load, weather, and occupancy. The program learns over time, and as equipment efficiency changes it determines new sequences to maintain or even improve system energy savings.

Two-way connectivity through the cloud is what enables that kind of machine learning—which is ultimately what will make a facility smart.

This originally appeared in ACHR News.