Graphical Methods in Energy Conservation

Abstract

It goes without saying that more efficient use of electrical energy results in savings for both companies and their customers, but effective communication of such information to customers, clients, management, and anyone else without technical backgrounds can be difficult. It’s often helpful to provide them with a method of easily determining for themselves the potential for conservation and improvement in their old facilities. Graphical techniques can help accomplish this. This paper will describe a nomogram which will allow nontechnical personnel to calculate the cost savings from using more efficient electrical equipment. Users of the chart must only draw a series of straight lines to determine the final answer, and knowledge of the underlying equation is needed. Nomograms also allow quick evaluation of “what ifs” without resorting to computers, and they can be readily employed in proposals, reports, articles, or in handouts to make a point. Though not a new technique, nomograms are often overlooked as a simple but effective means of communicating with laymen on technical subjects.