<p>Scientists have devised a new mathematical formula that can reduce the annual electricity consumption of a building by up to 50 per cent. <br /><br /></p>.<p>The formula detects unreliable systems and faulty equipment that affects energy consumption, researchers said. <br /><br />Li Song, from the University of Oklahoma, and her research colleagues, Gang Wang from University of Miami and Mike Brambley from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, have discovered a method that can significantly reduce building operating costs as well as energy consumption. <br /><br />Her applied research has potential to reduce energy consumption in a single structure by as much as 20 per cent. Depending on the building conditions, Song estimates peak savings could be as much as 30 to 50 per cent. <br /><br />Song's research team devised a mathematical formula using existing output data, such as pump speed and power, to monitor energy use in heating, ventilation and air conditioning units. <br /><br />Based on the results, the formula detects unreliable systems and faulty equipment that affects energy consumption. Song's formula creates virtual sensors to identify energy waste at the air-handling unit as well as at a whole-building level. <br /><br />“Waiting until exorbitant utility bills appear may be a sign that the equipment hasn't worked optimally for years. This method allows earlier detection of minor equipment faults, possibly preventing an overhaul of the entire system,” Song said. <br /><br />Besides saving companies money on utility bills, Song’s formula is a low-cost option to commercial monitors, making it easier for more companies to track energy efficiency. <br /><br />Song estimates one ultrasonic flow meter, which monitors water pump performance, could cost as much as $5,000, and an organisation would need to buy several monitors to get an accurate picture. <br /></p>
<p>Scientists have devised a new mathematical formula that can reduce the annual electricity consumption of a building by up to 50 per cent. <br /><br /></p>.<p>The formula detects unreliable systems and faulty equipment that affects energy consumption, researchers said. <br /><br />Li Song, from the University of Oklahoma, and her research colleagues, Gang Wang from University of Miami and Mike Brambley from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, have discovered a method that can significantly reduce building operating costs as well as energy consumption. <br /><br />Her applied research has potential to reduce energy consumption in a single structure by as much as 20 per cent. Depending on the building conditions, Song estimates peak savings could be as much as 30 to 50 per cent. <br /><br />Song's research team devised a mathematical formula using existing output data, such as pump speed and power, to monitor energy use in heating, ventilation and air conditioning units. <br /><br />Based on the results, the formula detects unreliable systems and faulty equipment that affects energy consumption. Song's formula creates virtual sensors to identify energy waste at the air-handling unit as well as at a whole-building level. <br /><br />“Waiting until exorbitant utility bills appear may be a sign that the equipment hasn't worked optimally for years. This method allows earlier detection of minor equipment faults, possibly preventing an overhaul of the entire system,” Song said. <br /><br />Besides saving companies money on utility bills, Song’s formula is a low-cost option to commercial monitors, making it easier for more companies to track energy efficiency. <br /><br />Song estimates one ultrasonic flow meter, which monitors water pump performance, could cost as much as $5,000, and an organisation would need to buy several monitors to get an accurate picture. <br /></p>