The reduction of energy consumption in the industry is directly linked to the optimization of financial resources. But how can you determine if the company is overspending on electricity?
The industrial sector has been relying on various innovative resources combined with the use of technology. In this way, professionals, in addition to learning how to calculate consumption, will also gain a broader understanding of the subject.
This is achieved through monitoring and controlling the equipment used by the company. The person responsible for machine maintenance will also assess their performance to prevent electricity waste.
To assist in this journey, we have prepared a comprehensive article on how to calculate electricity consumption. In the next lines, we will demonstrate the efficiency of automation tools and the benefits of monitoring for conscious energy use.
Enjoy your reading!
How to calculate energy consumption in the industry?
To calculate consumption using technology, simply install sensors, collect data, and analyze that data. Internet of Things (IoT) based tools are excellent resources to assist in reducing energy expenses.
According to information from Firjan, the cost of electricity accounts for 40% of the operational expenses of a Brazilian industry. Therefore, knowing how to reduce these costs contributes to financial optimization.
Learn more details about this calculation below:
Install sensors on all energy-supplying equipment
The first step to measure values related to electricity consumption is to install the system. Depending on the hired company, it might be necessary to make changes to the space or equipment structure.
However, there are specialized companies that offer easy-to-install resources that do not require structural changes, such as Squair. It is recommended that any device requiring electricity has a sensor for monitoring and control.
Some examples:
- Computers and printers
- Industrial machinery
- Air conditioning
- Light bulbs
Collect data related to electrical consumption
With all the equipment properly connected, it's possible to access the control center on a unified platform. Monitoring systems emit real-time data so that professionals can track consumption performance.
Remote data collection is possible, meaning the professional doesn't need to spend the entire day around the machinery to know how much energy it's consuming. Additionally, you can also integrate other solutions you use onto the same platform to centralize information.
Analyze the data collected by sensors and centralized in the system
From data collection, you'll generate reports to show how much is being consumed by each equipment. With this information, the manager can identify areas of waste and take measures to eliminate it.
For example, consider if the report shows that bathroom lights remain on all the time. Adding up all the days in the month, this could contribute to a high electricity bill.
The best solution would be to install motion sensors on the lights so they only turn on when someone is present.
Benefits of Remote Energy Consumption Monitoring
Technology designed for remote monitoring brings numerous benefits to the technician responsible for the equipment. With the ability to access real-time consumption data, the person doesn't need to rely on luck.
In other words, they won't need to be in the right place at the right time to identify a fault, for example. Everything can be done without initial travel, only by monitoring through a control screen.
Next, we list five advantages of remotely monitoring energy consumption in the industry:
Increase Energy Efficiency
Based on collected data and reports, managers can develop strategies aimed at increasing energy efficiency. Thus, the reduction in consumption contributes to lowering operational costs in the industry.
Returning to the example of lights that were always on, apart from installing sensors, there are other efficient practices. For instance, spaces with large windows and human traffic can utilize natural lighting.
Switching to LED bulbs also helps, as does incorporating transparent roofing or skylights in areas like warehouses.
Enhanced Professional Safety
The possibility to monitor and control equipment remotely provides greater safety for technicians. This way, the number of accidents in the work environment can be reduced.
Professionals can identify risks without exposing themselves, simply alerting the responsible parties for corrections. In some cases, it's even possible to remotely shut down faulty equipment, providing further safety for those involved.
Faster Problem Response
Real-time access allows problems to be solved more quickly. This not only avoids production process interruptions but also prevents situations from worsening.
Large industries need to be prepared for any inconvenience, such as power outages. In such cases, having external generators to continue work is crucial.
Operational Cost Reduction
By having access to consumption information, managers can create actions to save energy. Adopting sustainable resources can be a good alternative, like investing in solar panels.
These processes might represent substantial upfront investments. However, projecting long-term savings, the financial economy is much greater.
Real-time Supervision
Remote monitoring is an IoT technology-aligned strategy that provides real-time information. Maintaining equipment supervision provides more insight to professionals, as they come to understand better what's happening in the industry.
It's worth noting that this benefit is the origin of the others. Without real-time supervision, it wouldn't be possible to collect and analyze data accurately and swiftly.
How to Reduce Energy Consumption in the Industry?
In order to reduce electrical energy consumption in the industry, it's necessary to adopt certain changes and strategies. Among them, we can highlight the possibility of making better use of sunlight and implementing structural improvements in the environment.
Check out some tips we've prepared to help you in the process of reducing energy consumption:
Make improvements to the physical space
Some structural changes can have a significant impact on electricity costs, for example:
- Replacing circuit breakers with control panels with key identification;
- Installing translucent roofing in industrial warehouses to utilize sunlight;
- Opting for light-colored paints and furniture;
- Switching conventional bulbs to LED bulbs;
- Preferring natural ventilation by constructing larger windows and doors to allow ample air passage.
Utilize natural light
Choosing transparent ceilings (made with frosted fiber) allows sunlight to be utilized in industrial warehouses. During the day, if the offices are spacious, it's also possible to keep the lights off, relying solely on natural lighting.
Invest in renewable energy sources
Solar energy is an excellent alternative to conventional electricity usage, as it not only saves costs but also contributes to sustainability. Companies that efficiently harness renewable sources create less negative impact on the environment.
Use equipment with energy consumption class A
Equipment bearing the Procel Seal with the letter A have the lowest energy consumption. For the industrial sector, optimization through systems associated with the Procel Industry Seal also applies.
It's worth mentioning the caution regarding outdated technology equipment, as they can consume a lot of energy. Always keep software and hardware updated with market technology to prevent energy wastage.
Monitor equipment efficiency
Automation allows equipment to be monitored more efficiently, along with their status and activities. This process speeds up fault or issue identification, enabling swift and accurate repairs.
Perform equipment maintenance
Maintaining a routine of preventive maintenance prevents serious machinery failures and interruptions in the production process. Additionally, it reduces financial costs related to part replacements or equipment changes.
Equipment such as air conditioning, for instance, when not maintained in a timely manner, can lead to increased energy consumption.
Automate climate control systems
Standardize climate control system operation through process automation. Technological advancement has brought us the era of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling remote control of various equipment.
This way, you can monitor which devices are on and where, allowing you to shut down operation in unused areas.
Invest in building automation systems
Undoubtedly, having a building automation system greatly influences electrical energy savings. You might be wondering how, right? It's simple – with automated systems, the manager has control over all industry equipment.
Imagine that on a Friday, one of the employees left a machine running at the end of the workday. If there's no one supervising, even remotely, from Friday until Monday, the consumption will have been financially disastrous.
Therefore, this investment is ideal for those seeking to optimize financial resources while maintaining equipment performance. Just find the solution that best fits your needs, and Squair has the best options for you.
Take control and monitor equipment, units, and departments on a single platform through sensor installation. Our technology is IoT-based and doesn't require structural changes for implementation.
Reduce up to 25% of expenses on electrical energy consumption by adopting automation methods. Improve your company's energy efficiency while keeping sustainable practices active.
Get to know Squair and all the benefits it offers you with intelligent solutions!