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Hunt down inefficiencies and zap them at the source with intelligent energy meters
Zero in on inefficient machines and wasteful practices with smart meters, then take action exactly when and where it's needed.
The devices relay usage information and other data to a central computer or web-based interface, where an FM can use it to develop an energyefficiency action plan, identify problem appliances, or kick off an emissionscutting contest between tenants.
"You can only manage what you measure," says Stephan Prueger, vice president of sales at meter vendor TrendPoint. "Today, people don't really have good visibility of what's happening in the facility. They don't know where it's going and specifically who's using it."
How Smart Are They?
Depending on the model, smart meters (also known as electric submeters, to distinguish them from outdoor smart meters issued by utilities), can gather data on voltage, wattage, kWh used, power factor (the real power used compared to the total apparent power supplied), and even estimate your greenhouse gas emissions. Use a set of them to track usage by the circuit, tenant, or floor. Is an office on the first floor using more than its share of...