Posted on September 24, 2024
Enhancing energy efficiency through smart, automated shut-off electrical plugs
At R.E. Dimond and Associates, our commitment to innovative and sustainable engineering practices is at the forefront of every project we undertake. Our current project at Ball State University exemplifies this commitment by incorporating advanced energy-saving strategies in line with LEED standards.
Plug controls reduce non-essential hardware use by as much as 30x
One of the most exciting features of this project is the integration of plug load control technology. In modern buildings, plug loads—devices and equipment that draw power from electrical outlets, such as computers, monitors, printers, and copiers—can contribute significantly to overall energy consumption.
By implementing sophisticated controls, we ensure that when a space is vacant, devices such as computer monitors automatically shut off, drastically reducing unnecessary energy use. The plug load control receptacles are only placed on technology that can safely and sustainably be powered on and off quickly.
The plug controls can lower energy consumption from 30 watts to as low as 1 watts. In a typical university computer lab with twenty machines, just shutting off standalone monitors can save 87,600 watts per year on a typical 240 watts-per-day use cycle. Deployed over several labs, printers, copiers, and more across campus, the energy savings, reduced heat, and utility savings add up.
This approach supports Ball State University’s sustainability goals and highlights the evolving role of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineers in creating intelligent, responsive building environments. Through careful design and execution, we can provide solutions that enhance both energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
As MEP engineers, we take pride in our ability to integrate cutting-edge technology into our designs, ensuring that buildings are functional and aligned with the latest sustainability standards. Plug load control is just one of the many ways we help our clients achieve their environmental goals while maintaining optimal building performance.
Stay tuned for more updates on our work at Ball State University and other projects where we continue to push the boundaries of sustainable design. At R.E. Dimond, we build trust and deliver excellence, one project at a time.
