| Understanding Energy Conservation |
1. Same with LessIt is definitely possible to achieve the same level of comfort and convenience with less energy! Energy conservation does not mean switching off lights, sacrificing conveniences by reducing equipment operating time, raising room temperatures or replacing equipment. The same comfort and convenience can be maintained or enhanced with less energy. Energy conservation is a practice of reducing energy usage while achieving same outcome by improving energy efficiency. Mr. Jim Rogers does bring up an excellent point on energy efficiency improvements by referring it to the fifth fuel. When implementing energy efficiency improvements, commercial and industrial building users will not only reduce operating costs but will contribute towards sustainable environment. It is also the most economical and environmental-friendly solution to energy shortages. 2. Energy Conservation Opportunity Replacing an older chiller will definitely reduce energy usage. While it is a wise action from a green perspective, it can be a huge financial strain. Take for example, an existing 500RT chiller operating 10 hours daily at 0.65 KW/Ton and replace it with a chiller operating at 0.56 kW/Ton, will save energy but your investment cost of S$350,000 represents a payback period of 9 years. Instead of replacing the chiller, you have other choices to conserve energy. The best option is to enhance the system efficiency of your air-conditioning system. Most of the energy conservation opportunities lie in the Chilled Water Circulation, Condenser Water Circulation, Chiller Efficiency, Air Side Circulation, and Mechanical Ventilation. We have maintained 17 years old chiller at the same 0.62 kW/Ton efficiency when it was first commissioned. By maintaining it well, you will overcome the myth that chiller is old and inefficient which is never true. 3. More than Using Energy Conservation Devices Some energy conservation consultants recommend the use of energy conservation devices to save energy. Such devices include the variable speed drive (VSD) and variable air volume (VAV), which control and improve energy efficiency in ACMV system. VSD and VAV can only minimize energy usage if they are effective and responsive to various operating environment such as
Comfort’s energy conservation solution offers more than installing VSD and VAV. Please check our Energy Conservation Solution. |
