What’s new in BEMS: the lowdown on future trends
In six decades, the capability of building energy management systems (BEMS) and smart technology has drastically evolved. Particularly in the last few years. They’re adapting to an increasingly connected world and meeting demands for more efficient, sustainable ways of living.
And as our environmental awareness grows, further advancements will follow. Want an insight into how BEMS technology and services are expected to develop? Check out these predicted trends for 2024 and beyond.
Integration: artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)
AI and ML integration will become more sophisticated – and widespread. As a result, more building operators will start using ‘smart algorithms’. Used to analyse historical data, weather patterns and even occupancy trends, operators rely on these algorithms to predict and adjust energy use in real time.
Greater predictive capabilities will ultimately result in more energy efficient buildings. Meanwhile, operational costs come down thanks to a lack of energy wastage and the implementation of smart condition-based BEMS maintenance techniques.
IoT-enabled BEMS
The Internet of Things (IoT) is shaking things up in the world of BEMS. And this isn’t likely to slow down any time soon. With IoT-enabled sensors and devices popping up everywhere, building operators are getting live updates on a wider range of metrics. Ranging from conditions inside buildings to occupier behaviours. The result? Greater control and information on plant efficiently and how equipment is functioning.
With amplified levels of connectivity (such as the integration of BEMS analytics with CAFM systems), building operators can make smarter decisions. All thanks to a growing ability to maintain and control their BEMS and monitor energy use with pinpoint accuracy.
Renewable energy integration
Sustainability is becoming a top priority. That’s why incorporating renewable energy sources into our BEMS is so important. Solar panels, wind turbines and other green technologies will not only reduce a building’s carbon footprint but result in long-term cost savings.
Going forward, we expect our BEMS – and associated smart technologies – to seamlessly integrate and manage renewable energy production and consumption.
Communication protocols
Some manufacturers are gearing up for an exciting new development: changes to their internal data communications networks. Newly adopted protocols will exploit existing current loop network infrastructure to support secure, ethernet speed data transfer.
The result? Massively reduced costs for any potential BEMS upgrade project. All while enhancing the function and security of systems.
User interface and accessibility
BEMS user interfaces will become more intuitive and user-friendly. Giving building managers greater access to more comprehensive dashboards. Dashboards that provide a holistic view of energy consumption patterns, equipment status, BEMS maintenance notifications and sustainability metrics.
Increased adoption of mobile applications will see a rise in remote monitoring and control. Empowering users to make informed decisions on the go.
BEMS cybersecurity
As BEMS becomes more interconnected, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. We’ll see a heightened focus on implementing advanced security protocols to protect against cyber threats. Encryption, secure authentication and regular system audits will be standard practice. A necessity for safeguarding sensitive data.
Final thoughts
We’ll see a surge in sustainability and technological innovations. Great news for the BEMS industry, which’ll be at the forefront of creating smarter, more energy-efficient buildings.
Collectively, the integration of AI, IoT, renewable energy sources, communication protocols and improved cybersecurity measures will drive change. Having a real impact on the evolution of BEMS in 2024 and beyond.
Embracing these trends will not only contribute to a greener planet but also yield substantial cost savings. We look forward to an era where buildings not only adapt to their environments but actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
Get in touch
Any questions or comments? Get in touch with our BEMS experts. Find your local office here.
