University of Alberta
OP-T2-17: Energy Management System

UAlberta utilizes a Building Automation System (BAS) to centrally monitor and control the central systems in each individual building. Monthly and annual utility readings are coordinated through utilities and finance services and are used to track all facility utility performance. These readings are also used to compare current building performance to previous years to track changes to a facility’s utility performance. As well, the University of Alberta uses Direct Digital Controls (DDC) in each building to monitor and control the central systems of the buildings. A multi-campus network interconnects these buildings/systems to central DDC servers monitored by building operators in a 24-hour Control Centre. They can control each building and its systems. In the future, UAlberta will use an Enterprise Energy Information Monitoring System (EEIMS) in their building operations.

Where possible, central air systems are shut down to conserve energy in office and classroom buildings and areas within laboratory buildings. Other systems such as heating and cooling systems within buildings are also shut down on a demand basis when environmental and climatic conditions do not require the need for the specific systems.