Energy: Industrial energy control: The computer takes charge: Limited intelligence will suffice for local control, but computers are needed for overall system control

Discusses benefits offered by computer-based energy management which include: on-line control, global optimisation, overall plant data monitoring and plant management. Energy flow in a pulp and paper plant is illustrated as an example. Three levels of increasingly complex control are outlined: the control of individual energy sources or sinks; group control of similar units; and an overall supervisory system insuring that the whole production process is optimal.