Information technology is becoming a key feature in sustainable design, as energy-consuming systems are being integrated into energy management platforms that take a holistic approach to building performance. The significant efficiency gains that can be realized by these centralized energy management systems at reasonable costs mean that green standards are bound to take them into account.
This convergence of IT and physical infrastructure in the built environment is providing building owners and occupants with actionable information about a building or space that allows them to manage space more effectively. This capability can also be used in a recommissioning program to fine-tune building system performance.
The promise of this technology has spurred collaboration between building owners and information technology firms. One example is large property owner/manager Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), which enlisted Pacific Controls to create the platform system IntelliCommand. In November 2011, JLL began using IntelliCommand for 24/7, real-time remote monitoring and control capabilities that ensure that all buildings systems operate at peak efficiency.
The platform combines cloud-based, automation technology with flesh-and-blood facility management experts to operate global building portfolios at peak efficiency. IntelliCommand is expected to reduce energy costs by an estimated 18% in the first two years of operations.
