Courtesy : www.climateaction.org
Energy efficiency
As a result, governments are applying pressures to meet the ambitious
targets. It is almost certain that ever more demanding regulations will be
enforced to address all energy uses, including existing buildings and,
naturally, industry. At the same time energy prices are rising as natural
resources become exhausted and the electrical infrastructure in some
countries struggles to cope with increasing demand.
Technology exists to help tackle energy efficiency on many levels from
reducing electrical consumption to controlling other energy sources more
efficiently. Strong regulatory measures may be required to ensure these
technologies are adopted quickly enough to impact on the 2020 targets.
The most important ingredient however, lies with the ability of those in
control of industry, business and government to concentrate their hearts
and minds on making energy efficiency a critical target. Otherwise, it might
not be just the Kyoto targets on which the lights go out.
The message to heed is that if those empowered to save energy don’t
do so willingly now, they will be compelled under legal threat to do so
in the future.
Companies such as Schneider Electric have the expertise and experience
to provide the very best advice, backed by the latest technology to make
savings inexpensively, quickly and simply –
Purpose
This white paper demonstrates that energy consumption can be lowered
by effective control and that such measures can significantly reduce carbon
emissions and make a major contribution towards meeting Kyoto targets.
Energy first came into sharp focus during the oil crisis in the 1970s
following which some countries adopted energy policies. However, at that
time most measures aimed at addressing building materials, insulation,
glazing and heating efficiency.
Even today, most people think only of lighting control when electrical
energy is considered. It also remains true that with a few recent notable
exceptions (such as Building Regulations Part L in the UK, and the move
towards the European Buildings Directive to rate buildings’ CO2
emissions)
most regulations address thermal and insulation issues.
Electricity and energy efficiency delivers a further benefit for industry,
business and government in being perceived by their respective publics
as being socially and environmentally responsible. They will achieve lower
energy costs too.
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 4
Introduction
This white paper explores every aspect of the use of electricity and its
impact on the environment. With greenhouse gas emissions in sharp
focus around the world, the time has come for everyone to take action to
economise on energy use by the intelligent application of technology to
bring about energy efficiency.
Economies are readily possible in electricity generation and distribution, in
its use and in the way electricity can be used wisely to make efficiencies
in the use of other energy. Indeed, the management and control of other
primary thermal energy from coal, oil and gas is also a key to reducing both
consumption and emissions.
The technology is available to maximise the effectiveness of electricity and
the way in which it is distributed.
The technology is there to control buildings’ energy use in lighting, heating,
HVAC, building controls and distribution. Lighting alone can account for
40% of a typical commercial enterprise’s electricity consumption. It is
also important to consider that passive energy reduction measures such
as installing insulation, can create problems if adequate ventilation is not
considered at the same time.
In industry there are proven systems to reduce the power consumed by
electric motor systems and to better control the application of electrical
power throughout a plant. Two thirds of electrical energy used by industry
is used powering motors. In most countries less than 10% of those motors
have any kind of control and therefore cannot be slowed down or switched
off automatically.
In the home, new products enable lighting and heating controls that
enhance living standards yet save electricity. In most countries, every single
domestic dwelling (including individual apartments) contributes about 6.5
tonnes of CO2
each year – or, to put it another way, enough gas to fill six hot
air balloons!
Yet, just switching off lights in unoccupied rooms could save 2.2 tonnes
per household.
In short, there is no reason not to be able to save electricity and other
energy, provided there is the understanding of what is at stake, together
with the desire to do something about it.
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 5
Electrical energy usage
World energy consumption is projected to rise by 30% by 2020 according
to Enerdata’s latest predictions from May 2007. Electricity consumed in
2005 was estimated at 18,140 TWh with 67% of that capacity produced by
coal, oil and gas power stations.
It is clear that electrical energy consumption will rise over the coming
decades if no action is taken to economise. This is particularly true in third
world and emerging economies where not only is the use of new electrical
equipment growing, but also much of the populations of certain regions
currently without electricity supplies, will subsequently get them.
In offices, the explosion of information technology has seen huge increases
in electrical consumption, as has the preference for air conditioning
systems. The prolific growth of datacentres and new industries has also
contributed to a dramatic rise in electrical power usage.
In industry, automation and the increasing use of electrical power as well
as inefficient hydraulic and pneumatic systems has grown.
In the home, computers, multiple televisions sets, modern electrical
appliances, air conditioning and even outside lighting and powered
equipment have seen an exponential growth in consumption. Indeed, in
many western economies, domestic electricity consumption outstrips even
industrial use.
It would be hard for most people to imagine a life without electricity, but that
does not mean consumption cannot be controlled.
World energy consumption figures demonstrate global
reliance on primary fossil fuels.
Electricity’s Role in Energy.
2010 2015 2020 2025 2030
Quadrillion Btu
Oil
Natural Gas
Coal Renewables
Nuclear
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 6
Electricity generation and distribution
The debate about how electricity is generated continues to rage and there
are strong arguments for all the technologies that can be deployed. The
greatest impact on carbon reduction would be to see an end to the use of
fossil fuels in electricity generation. However, in developing countries, coal,
oil and gas powered stations remain the most economical. Nuclear power
still attracts negative lobbies, but has been shown to be a clean, reliable
source of power. Of the renewable energy technologies, hydroelectric
generation is a significant contributor where such opportunities exist, while
in Europe wind powered electricity generation is accelerating.
From a consumption perspective, one of the areas in which utility
companies can make a contribution is in the efficiency of both their
generating systems and their distribution infrastructure. Higher voltage
transmission helps – for example, the UK retains an 11kV supply whereas
most developed countries have adopted a 22kV network – but low loss
transformer technology also needs to be deployed more extensively.
European Union: Gross Electricity Generation
- Note: Does not include pumped storage presented above
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 7
In power generation, better monitoring and control can lead to leaner
burning stations. Equipment powered by electric motors can have speed
controls fitted to reduce energy consumption. Equipment maintenance and
upgrading can also improve efficiency.
In distribution, losses through transformers and checks on the integrity of
the cabling can make savings. Judicious sizing of transformers can also
maximise the available capacity to the consumers.
In fact, the consumption from the generation and transport of electricity
are generally three times the primary energy actually consumed. Due to
the efficiency of the whole chain, saving one unit of electricity in a home
or business obviates the consumption of three times that amount of
primary energy at a power plant (this is true of oil, gas or coal). One unit
of electricity saved by an end user triples the benefit – and this is true of all
thermal energy!
However, because the issues affecting power generation are still to be
resolved nationally, regionally and internationally, the primary target
remains the quest to conserve what electricity we currently produce and
reduce consumption wherever possible.
Internal Electricity Consumption in Europe 2003 (GWh)
Note: Source ETSO, UCTE online data for 2003,
Nordel annual report 2003, figures are representative
of the 100% internal consumption, comprehensive of
Loses and Pumped Storage power.
Energy efficiency
Responsible equipment manufacturers are continually developing more
efficient products. However, while for the most part the efficiency of the
equipment is a fair representation of its energy saving potential – say, in the
example of a domestic washing machine or refrigerator – it is not always the
case in industrial and commercial equipment.
In many cases the overall energy performance of the system is what really
counts. Put simply, if an energy saving device is left permanently on standby it can be less efficient than a higher consuming device that is always
switched off when not in use.
It is also important that all the elements in a system combine to bring about
the maximum energy efficiency possible. For example, it is well understood
that energy efficient (Eff-1) AC electric motors save significant amounts of
energy. Some argue that such efficient motors are more expensive, but the
purchase price of such equipment is a very small part of the true costs. For
example, the lifetime energy costs in running an Eff-1 or lower rated AC
motor is often 100 times its purchase price over a lifetime expectancy of
13 years (average). An 11kW motor costing perhaps 400 euros to buy can
consume in its lifetime up to 80,000 euros at current electricity prices.
But, once coupled with a variable speed drive (AC inverter) savings can be
multiplied many fold. Indeed, savings are typically three times greater for
a high efficiency motor fitted with a VSD rather than using ordinary fixed
speed starters.
Adopting Eff-1 motors can be considered a passive response to energy
efficiency, while using VSDs represents an active approach.
Whatever the scenario, maximum energy efficiency comes from taking a
view of the complete picture.
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 8
Managing energy with electricity
Managing energy is the key to maximising its usefulness and economising
on its waste. While there are increasing numbers of products that are now
more energy efficient than their predecessors, controlling switching or
reducing settings of variables such as temperature or speed, makes the
greatest impact.
It is not just by reducing electricity consumption that savings can be made.
In fact, the judicious use of electricity in controlling other energy can bring
huge reductions in the use of fossil fuels, gas, and fluid power such as
hydraulics and compressed air.
The key to controlling energy is the use of technology.
In commerce, it is estimated that as much as 90% of all building controls
currently in use are deficient when it comes to energy efficiency.
In industry, some 90% or more of all AC electric motors are totally
uncontrolled.
In the home, simple lighting controls, energy saving lamps and better
heating controls can all be installed quickly, simply and cheaply.
In industry and commerce it is not just the equipment that is powered
by electricity that presents opportunities for better management. Power
quality issues, such as improving a site’s power factor can make substantial
savings. Energy auditing can enable more power to be usefully deployed
from existing infrastructure – overcoming the need for additional capacity in
many instances.
For most commercial and industrial consumers there is a lack of
understanding of how power is used, coupled with general ignorance of
what technologies are available to manage and save energy. Equally true,
is the failure to realise that other energy consumption can be reduced
by using electrical control technology. Apart from building management
systems, there are also advanced heating, ventilating and air conditioning
controllers, boiler controls and even lift drive systems that can all contribute
to maximising efficiency. Energy audits by qualified experts, however, are
readily available. What is needed is the will to undertake such auditing.
In the home, most people are aware of energy saving lamps, but figures
from most countries suggest that only a small proportion of people use
them. Most people do not realise the simple, but effective control equipment
is available or affordable.
The challenge is therefore to build a better understanding among people
generally about what can be achieved and how to achieve it.
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 9
Managing energy in commerce
There are three areas to be addressed in commercial energy use:
b The planning of energy efficient buildings and systems in new
developments
b The refurbishment of existing buildings and systems to make them more
energy efficient
b The use of buildings; and the energy saving regimes of the owners,
tenants or occupiers
There is evidence that new projects are being designed with energy
efficiency in mind. Some of this comes from the initiatives of architects,
building services engineers and building owners. To an increasing extent,
particularly where large corporations are likely to take tenancy of the
building, there is a requirement from the occupiers – who want to exercise
corporate governance over environmental issues.
The extent to which such stakeholders understand energy management
and efficiency is variable – some know a great deal, others know very
little. It is beholden on equipment and building management systems
manufacturers to partner closely those with responsibility for the building’s
energy and infrastructure control.
In building refurbishment there is the challenge of communicating what
is possible. Much attention is usually applied to glazing and insulation in
such projects, but energy control and management must also rank high on
the agenda if the modernised building is to satisfy its potential for energy
efficiency. Retrofittable electrical and building management systems can
be easily implemented during refurbishment projects, but the stakeholders,
such as building services engineers and facilities managers, must
understand what can be done.
Occupiers of buildings often believe they have little or no control over
the infrastructure of that building. Yet, there are some simple steps that
can be taken to understand their energy consumption and take steps to
reduce usage. One factor that appears to be a general impediment is the
lack of understanding as to where energy is used and when. Here, simple
metering can provide a wealth of data that can bring about easy changes
and huge energy reductions. Heating, ventilating and lighting unoccupied
areas is very common. Uncontrolled external lighting and lighting
internal spaces even when there is adequate daylight are also frequently
encountered.
Once identified, excessive or unnecessary energy use is easily alleviated
by simple controls or a more disciplined behaviour among the occupants
of the building. Again, this is an area requiring a change in the hearts and
minds of those in charge of businesses.
The diagram below shows figures for office buildings produced by the
Carbon Trust in the UK. This data highlights a summary of energy usage
that has parallels throughout the developed world. The potential for savings
is immense.
Energy use indices (EUIs) for good practice and typical
examples of the four offices types
Energy cost indices (ECIs) for good practice and
typical examples of the four offices types
Carbon dioxide emission indices (CEIs) for good practice
and typical examples of the four offices types
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 11
Managing energy in industry
Energy intensive industries such as metals manufacturing, glass and
plastics processing and food and beverage production understand the need
for energy management because their processes involve great amounts of
heat. These businesses have traditionally sought ways to maximise their
return on investment from the energy used in their primary processes.
However, even these energy aware businesses often fail to realise how
much more can be saved through building controls and a company wide
energy policy.
All industries can benefit from energy policy, but it must extend beyond
the production environment and into every aspect of the sites. Offices, for
example, stand to save just as much as in the commercial sector.
While in many countries industrial energy use has now been slightly
outweighed by that consumed by commercial and residential buildings, it is
a fact that industry consumes huge amounts of electrical power. About two
thirds of that is typically consumed powering electric motors. Of these, an
overwhelming majority can be made significantly more energy efficient by
controlling their switching on and off or by controlling their speed. - Other sectors comprices agriculture, commercial & public services, residential and non-specified
1973 and 2004 Shares of World Electricity Consumption
Unlocking Energy Efficiency
Management and control is the key
White paper on Energy Efficiency – 12
This is a relatively simple task of equipment retrofitting, yet it is clear that
most manufacturing and process plants fail to take the step. The reason is
often because those that control the costs of an industrial operation are not
communicating with those charged with the management of the production
processes.
For example, if a painting plant uses hundreds of AC motors on fans,
pumps and compressors (continuous duty applications) it could readily
benefit from the use of variable speed drives. However, while the plant
manager, as an engineer, understands this, he or she is invariable
responsible only for improving productivity or output and not for the
overhead costs. Higher management is concerned with paying the
overheads but remains unaware that such a saving could be made because
it is never on the agenda in engineering meetings.
In industry, senior management and plant engineers must learn to talk if
comprehensive energy efficiency is to be achieved. In no other sector is
the communication gap wider than between those charged with making
energy decisions in industry, and those who actually know how energy can
be saved.
Industry 21%
Rest of Global
GHGs 79 %
A. Subsect