California State University, Channel Islands
Tier2-5: Energy Management System

California State University Channel Islands (CI) controls its use of energy and greenhouse gases by the use of a web-based building management system. It is comprised of a network of communication devices and building controllers located throughout each building and mechanical space. The function of these controls is to schedule the occupied times, operational set points, and temperatures for the lighting /ventilation systems. The campus is able to co-ordinate the time of use (schedule) of the buildings with our customers for the general class times and periods of use. This way the lights and HVAC systems will be off when nobody is home! This system uses some of the latest technology using a centralized web-based server. This server is the central access to all of the buildings from anywhere there is internet access. This allows adjustment to the system from home without relying on someone driving out to the campus. This creates better customer support and uses no fuel. This system automatically collects data in the form of trend logs for system diagnostics and analysis of energy usage. This system also has built in programmable logic that responds to the ambient outside air condition to allow the use of “free cooling” when possible. This creates opportunities for the larger cooling/heating equipment to remain idle when certain conditions are met. We have currently been able to quantify electrical savings created by the energy management system by comparing one year to the next, using the data from the trend logs. CI is currently installing energy usage metering at each building to be able to see how much energy each building is using independently. This method will keep each building running at its optimum ability to conserve energy. Our system has been so successful on many fronts that new BMS systems are installed as the buildings come on line.