Simplified performance monitoring of energy systems

Large energy consumers face mounting pressure due to recent energy cost increases, as well as regulatory requirements and limitations. Therefore, energy performance monitoring is an essential component of many modern businesses. Consumers must manage energy resources sparingly. However, managing the large datasets associated with large-scale operations can often become overwhelming. This creates the need for a simplified approach to performance monitoring. Energy monitoring and reporting systems have been created to address the requirements of specific applications such as DSM performance tracking. However, a more generic approach is required in order to include a comprehensive collection of energy data for additional applications. In this paper a generic data management solution is discussed. The system gathers a wide range of energy data suitable to address the needs of a variety of applications. Reports are compiled according to organisational levels. This ensures timely delivery of relevant reports to personnel at different organisational levels. Various features of the proposed improved performance monitoring system are described. Additionally, a case study on a DSM project demonstrates the implementation and use of the system. It was possible to improve the performance of the project after identifying and modifying its inefficient control philosophy.