Use of Building Energy Management systems in hotels
The use of technological advancements in hotels such us sensors, monitors, digital video cameras, smart cards, access cards and other systems has been recently increased.
Building Energy Management (BEM) systems are rapidly gaining popularity in the hospitality industry. In recent years, the use of BEM has become increasingly widespread among hotels, offering numerous benefits that are highly valued by property owners and managers. This technology integrates the management of multiple building systems, such as heating, cooling, lighting, security, and energy management, into one centralized platform. With its real-time data collection, analysis, and control capabilities, BEM provides an efficient and convenient way to manage a hotel’s infrastructure and operations in a single dashboard. The key benefit of a BEM is that you can operate all of these systems from a single interface because the BEM is connected to multiple systems across your building. Typical features include:
- Lighting: Since an efficient BEM can turn lights on and off and track usage, facility managers can see how much energy the lighting system uses by glancing at the dashboard. The BEM can notify them when light bulbs need to be changed, and they can create lighting schedules to, for instance, have outdoor lights switch on automatically at night.
- HVAC: The BEM can be used to control heating, air conditioning, and air handling systems. Facility managers can keep track of usage and receive notifications when HVAC systems require maintenance, just like with the lighting system.
- Security: The BEM can link with your alarm system for real-time monitoring and administration of the facility.
- Access Control: Hotels have several different entry points, including locks on guest rooms and doors leading to facilities like swimming pools and parking lots. Based on the access control data, BEM can also provide valuable information regarding the occupancy status of rooms and the number of individuals present in a given area. For instance, with BEM, facility managers can analyze how often an amenity is used or immediately turn off access when the facility is closed.
- Sprinkler and fire safety systems: Sprinkler and fire safety systems can be connected to the BEM so that it can continuously check for fires inside the building and take appropriate action. The ideal location to manage emergency use of lifts, fire exits, and ventilation systems is still the fire alarm panel in the majority of buildings.
- Real-time reporting: Reporting can be customized to the needs of the client and is crucial for improving building operations. The most effective analytics features of the BEM will generate reports that can identify patterns and show how you’re getting closer to your efficiency targets. In addition, smart data analytics combined with BEM produce customized, understandable reports highlighting particular areas for change-focused actions.
The BEM controls and monitors the hotel’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and other building services, enabling the hotel to optimize its energy usage, ensure guest comfort and safety, and reduce maintenance costs. Additionally, the BMS can also provide real-time data and analytics that help the hotel make informed decisions about energy usage and resource allocation. Therefore, the implementation of a BEM can lead to a more efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective hotel operation.
Smart control systems can help huge buildings save thousands, perhaps millions, of dollars annually through energy savings. Any facility management strategy for preventive maintenance and building operations must start with BEM systems.