Automation is being used to enhance energy monitoring and increase connectivity in college and university buildings
Learning Objectives
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- Identify how changes in learning models are impacting building design in universities.
- Understand how automation is changing energy and resource monitoring.
Automation insights
- Automation in university projects is enhancing resource management and energy efficiency.
- The shift to “bring your own device” and increased cybersecurity concerns are driving the need for robust connectivity.
Respondents:
- Matthew Goss, PE, PMP, CEM, CEA, CDSM, LEED AP, MEP + Energy practice leaders, CDM Smith, Latham, N.Y.
- Abdullah Khaliqi, PE, CPQ, Academic market leader, Fitzemeyer & Tocci Associates, Inc, Woburn, Mass.
- Stephanie Lafontaine, PE, LEED BD+C, Lead mechanical engineer, RMF Engineering, Boston
- John Mongelli, PE, Associate, Kohler Ronan Consulting Engineers, Danbury, Conn.
- Jeff Wurmlinger, PE, HDR, Mechanical Section Leader, Phoenix
From your experience, what systems within a college or university project are benefiting from automation that previously might not have been?
Abdullah Khaliqi: In college and university projects, systems benefiting from automation include water metering and sub-metering for tracking end uses. Automated water metering systems can detect leaks and monitor usage patterns, while sub-meters allow for detailed energy consumption tracking in specific areas. These automated systems improve resource management, enhance energy efficiency and provide valuable data for optimizing building operations and reducing overall utility costs.
John Mongelli: Energy monitoring has become increasingly important in helping these institutions understand how a building’s energy usage compares to other buildings on campus. Often, it is determined that certain equipment has been operating longer than anticipated due to changes in the building’s occupancy or manual overrides administered by a technician.
How are sensors and data analytics utilized in automation and control systems for university buildings?
Abdullah Khaliqi: Sensors and data analytics are utilized in automation and control systems for university buildings to monitor and manage various aspects such as temperature, water usage and energy consumption. Advanced sensors provide real-time data, which is displayed through user-friendly front-end graphics. This information not only helps optimize energy efficiency but also serves as a marketing tool by showcasing the building’s performance and sustainability efforts in real time. By analyzing this data, universities can track energy use, identify inefficiencies and implement improvements, ultimately leading to reduced operational costs and enhanced environmental impact.
John Mongelli: The main purpose of monitoring sensors and analytics is to optimize the controls of the building. It is ideal to track actual building data over a year so that the owner can make adjustments to improve building efficiency.
What types of system integration and/or interoperability issues have you overcome for these projects and how did you do so?
John Mongelli: Most of the issues we see are not related to system integration or interoperability but rather to contractors who are not fully versed in setting up the latest equipment. Because of this, we now include language within our specifications to ensure a manufacturer’s technician is present on-site to oversee building modeling system (BMS) integration and initial equipment setup.
Cybersecurity and vulnerability are increasing concerns. How are you responding to these concerns?
John Mongelli: We recommend and advocate that the BMS be on a dedicated network. This way, if a cyber-attack occurs, the BMS cannot be used as a gateway to access important client files and data.
Jeff Wurmlinger: Depending on the determined threat level and known vulnerabilities, we collaborate with cybersecurity specialists to develop the design and requirements. Originally created to protect government assets, this design-specific approach is now being applied to other infrastructure and vulnerable entities. The first step in protecting the network is to understand and identify potential intrusion points. From there, partnering with cybersecurity specialists, each project receives a tailored design to ensure appropriate protection. However, this approach presents challenges, such as requiring a complex Wi-Fi network (if used at all) and aims for a controllable single point of connection to the existing campus infrastructure to maintain a single firewall.
How has a shift to online or hybrid learning impacted the design of campus buildings?
Abdullah Khaliqi: The shift to online or hybrid learning has impacted campus building design by increasing the emphasis on connectivity, lighting and spaces designed for presentations. Enhanced Wi-Fi and network infrastructure are crucial for supporting virtual learning. Lighting designs now include adjustable options for video conferencing and presentations. Additionally, spaces previously used for in-person classes are repurposed for collaboration and tech support. Scheduled occupancy is less predictable, which affects energy efficiency. Therefore, designs now incorporate more flexible and responsive energy management systems to optimize usage and reduce costs.
How has “bring your own device” affected the design of technology systems in campus buildings?
Abdullah Khaliqi: The “bring your own device” trend has affected the design of technology systems in campus buildings by increasing the need for robust and widespread connectivity. Infrastructure now includes more accessible and numerous network access points to accommodate various devices. Additionally, power outlets and charging stations are more strategically placed. Energy efficiency implications are significant, as increased device use requires more energy and cooling, prompting the integration of energy-efficient systems and smart controls to manage power consumption effectively while maintaining optimal performance.
How has your technology team worked with facility managers to implement security technology (biometrics, card scan, etc.) in college and university projects?
John Mongelli: We have noticed a definite push for card reader access across campuses. Owners recognize the obvious benefit of staff being able to carry a single card instead of multiple keys, as well as the ease with which lost student cards, for example, may be replaced. Our engineers also work with owners and facility managers to review our security camera layouts to ensure that we are both maintaining student privacy and meeting their safety requirements.
