 |
 |
|
Taking Submetering to the Next Level
Every property should have an efficient billing plan and a monitoring system, especially for commercial buildings and Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs). This is usually handled through a submeter which is a device, or even a total system, to accurately measure and monitor energy usage for targeted loads. Many states mandate procedures and regulations that apply to submetering for all utilities such as electricity, water and gas, and other states have adopted these codes. These include the latest ASHRAE 90.1 2019 requirements, California’s Title 24, Seattle Energy Code, and New York Local Law 88 requirements for energy monitoring and load disaggregation.
Leviton takes submetering one step further by recently introducing an IP-based Data Acquisition System (DAS) that employs an Energy Monitoring Hub (EMH). The server, known as EMHDX, is an intelligent, flexible data acquisition server allowing users to collect energy data from submeters and environmental sensors. Designed to connect to IP-based applications such as enterprise energy management, demand response and smart grid programs, the EMH can connect to thousands of energy points, benchmark energy usage and reduce energy costs. |
|
| The question most asked by building owners and contractors is, “What’s in it for me?” Besides complying to numerous codes, the advantages for an efficient submetering system are numerous to both the building owners, as well as the tenants. An accurate DAS can reduce energy costs by providing “real time” performance data, track energy use including peak demand for systems including lighting, HVACs, PDUs and inverters. A benchmark building usage system can be incorporated to provide alarm notification for the data points that are above or below target levels through an IP connected device. The system can even monitor renewable energy performance, such as when solar panels are incorporated. When a contractor understands these benefits and offers to install these systems, he becomes a hero as the customer has the potential to recuperate huge savings on their utility bills. |
|
Here's How it Works
The EMH collects and logs data from connected (wired or wireless) devices based on user selected units. Using an integrated modem or Ethernet (LAN) connection data can be pushed via HTTP or FTP and pull data via XML or any custom protocol utilizing Leviton’s EMH to monitor user-specified applications.
Data from downstream attached modules, such as Modbus™ or BACnet devices, are time stamped and stored in non-volatile memory. Up to 32 Modbus devices can be connected through Modbus ports (RS-485) and Ethernet (TCP/IP) ports, as well as 8 user selectable inputs for pulse, analog and resistive output devices to address a broad range of applications. The interval data is stored locally until the next scheduled upload or manual download. |
|
|
|
Contractors, as well as customers, need to know that the set-up is quick and easy. All they will need, in addition to Leviton’s Energy Monitoring Hub and the DAS server, is an Ethernet connection, such as a Category 5e or 6 twisted-pair copper cable for direct connection to a laptop or wireless LAN system.
Since the DAS is IP-based, the EMH must be set up with a unique IP address. This can be easily implemented by the building’s network administrator or even a network savvy installer through three methods. The first is to obtain a static IP address which is fixed IP address which is usually assigned by a network administrator and “hard-coded” into the EMH. The next is through a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) address, which can provide the IP address to the EMH when it is connected to the network from a host DHCP server. The third option is direct connection between the EMH and a single computer, such as a laptop, of which most can automatically detect and assign an IP address. |
|
| By installing an IP-based system, customers quickly identify energy hogs and can immediately alleviate over usage and overspending. Look to Leviton to keep our partners smart! For more visit Leviton.com/metering. |
|
| Leviton Mfg. Company Inc. |
201 North Service Rd.
Melville, NY 11747
|
|
|
