Submetering for Schools and Campuses

With the continuous rise of energy rates and the tightening of budgets, efficiency measures are one of the few ways that schools can save money without cutting back on their educational programs. Securing the benefits of these efficiency upgrades begins with submetering.

Why Should Campuses Focus On Submetering?

The traditional method of tracking energy use using only one meter for a whole group of buildings is relatively simple, but comes with a big trade-off. Having actual usage data is too important and simplified single payments are not worth it. Building managers have to know exactly when, where, and how much of their utilities are being used before any accurate improvements can be implemented. This benefits of submetering are already being enjoyed  by several campuses across the country. According to a 2009 study by the University of California San Diego, individually metered tenant spaces averaged 21% lower utility bills than those without.

If your campus is only beginning  to step into submetering, beginning with an electric meter on each building is a great stepping stone before fully committing to submetering. This is because electrical use is usually the largest portion of a campus utility bill, and this can provide a great return on investment almost immediately. With United Utility Services, you’ll have access to our exclusive system that collects all the needed data and builds comprehensivebut useful reports for you and yor personnel.

After a year or so of logging down building usage data, you will have more than enough information to begin noticing when things are not how they should be within each building. Such is the case with Oregon State University, where steam system leaks and wasteful water issues were identified and repaired thanks to individual submeters. This is why regularly tracking usage data at a consistent interval, such as every month, can be extremely useful.

However, to make sure you get the full benefit of submetering and the data gathered, your campus should launch and maintain measures to prevent wastage. Important steps such as improvement prioritization and thorough analysis of energy hogs should be followed.  With the right data from submeters, you can improve efficiency on all levels, from campus planning to utilities expenses. Having accurate consumption information will make sure you have the motivation and the tools needed to make the choices that will best improve your campus.