Implementation of an Integrated Energy Information System in a Large University Campus

Abstract

This paper describes the design, installation and implementation of an integrated energy information system at the central plant, auxiliary utility plants, and selected buildings at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. The Comprehensive Integrated Metering and Monitoring System (CIMMS) at the University of New Mexico collects electricity, natural gas, chilled water and steam energy consumption and production data. The CIMMS project was implemented to develop baseline energy consumption measurements and provide the ability to evaluate and improve energy system performance through data analysis and control systems. Prior to implementation of CIMMS, the campus had only two main electric meters and no way to collect detailed steam, chilled water or natural gas consumption data. CIMMS was implemented by Square D in association with New Horizon Technologies and the Energy Systems Laboratory at Texas A&M University. As installed, CIMMS included 28 Square D Power Logic Circuit Monitors with on-board data logging, true RMS metering, ANSI C12.16 revenue accuracy, sag/swell and harmonic power quality analysis and field installable modules for Ethernet, on-board alarming and programmable logic. The system also included six Power Logic Power Meters and System Manager Software (SMS). Another key element of CIMMS is the integration of mechanical metering. Twenty Modicon Momentum Programmable Logic Controllers were networked with the Circuit monitors and collect more than 120 thermal energy data points from utility natural gas meters and campus natural gas, steam and chilled water sub-meters. Square D's SMS is the primary communication and data collection software that is used for integrating MODBUS devices, uploading onboard logs, storing historical data logs and pictorially displaying real-time data. EnerTel® software, developed by eComponents Technology, Inc., overlays the SMS database to create historical data views, load profiles, utility cost estimates and custom reports. The CIMMS software generates numerous automated custom reports including a campus energy balance with electricity, steam and chilled water subsystems, steam and chilled water production and consumption reports and individual facility or building energy production and consumption reports. This paper will focus on the design, installation and implementation challenges associated with a large, state-of-the-art energy information system. Key aspects of CIMMS that will be highlighted in this paper include the following: •Turn-key project ownership •Proven technology (Commercial, Off-the-Shelf) •Industry standard, open system network protocols •Reliance on the existing campus Ethernet TCP/IP backbone fiber optic network •Requirement of 48 hours of on-board data-logging capability at the device level to provide security from network disruption •Integration of legacy electronic Watt metering equipment into CIMMS •Extensive data analysis and reporting software requirements •Capability for integration with future building automation system (BAS).