Real-Time Itemized Electricity Consumption Intelligence for DoD Bases

EW-201335

Objective

The objective of this project is to provide the Department of Defense (DoD) with real-time energy consumption information itemized by device. Unlike a conventional electric bill, which only shows total energy consumed, itemized information can drive more efficient energy usage, inform equipment purchase decisions, and help maintain building performance. Itemized energy consumption data also provide measurement and verification for other efficiency initiatives. As the DoD moves towards its energy reduction goals, this high-resolution information about how energy is being used will increase energy efficiency and also provide intelligence about the effectiveness of other efficiency measures.

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Technology Description

Belkin’s electricity itemization technology uses a sensor installed at a building’s circuit breaker or meter panel. The sensor detects real-time current changes as well as broadband noise created by devices as they switch on or off or otherwise change state. The power characteristics and noise from each type of device have a unique signature that results from the device’s electrical circuit design. The Belkin sensor captures this signature and uses machine-learning algorithms for analysis to identify usage for each device and the amount of energy consumed. The system can create reports, such as a consumption report that is similar to a credit card or telephone bill, and make data available to other systems for analysis or control.

This project will demonstrate the technology at typical DoD facilities including Camp Pendleton, California and Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, California and quantify its benefits.

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Benefits

The principal benefit to the DoD will be detailed, precise information regarding electricity use, presented in a manner that can directly translate to energy savings. For instance, base management will be able to provide feedback to energy users about the relative power draw of devices, enabling energy managers and consumers to make informed choices. The update rate and increased detail of energy information will also permit closer tracking of efficiencies of specific buildings and activities. The team expects to identify opportunities for at least a 10% reduction in electricity use in the buildings in which the technology is deployed, valued at approximately $1400 per year per typical building. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2016)

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Points of Contact

Principal Investigator

Mr. Henry Chen

Belkin International, Inc.

Phone: 310-751-2720

Fax: 310-751-5912

Program Manager

Energy and Water

SERDP and ESTCP

Document Types

  • Fact Sheet - Brief project summary with links to related documents and points of contact.
  • Final Report - Comprehensive report for every completed SERDP and ESTCP project that contains all technical results.
  • Cost & Performance Report - Overview of ESTCP demonstration activities, results, and conclusions, standardized to facilitate implementation decisions.
  • Technical Report - Additional interim reports, laboratory reports, demonstration reports, and technology survey reports.
  • Guidance - Instructional information on technical topics such as protocols and user’s guides.
  • Workshop Report - Summary of workshop discussion and findings.
  • Multimedia - On demand videos, animations, and webcasts highlighting featured initiatives or technologies.
  • Model/Software - Computer programs and applications available for download.
  • Database - Digitally organized collection of data available to search and access.