2. Systems approach

A systems approach to energy management takes into account the relationship between buildings, appliances, equipment and their users.

For example, the room pictured left has a series of heat inputs from:

• the weather conditions outside,

• personnel in the room

• the lighting in the ceiling and

• the computer.

Each heat source requires additional work from the air conditioner to maintain room temperature.

To determine the total heat gain or load, you should include in your assessment:

heat (lights) + heat (personnel) + heat (PCs and appliances) + heat gain (exterior).

Each light fixture will produce a heat output; similarly for personnel and for PCs.

By understanding the system interactions we can more effectively reduce energy consumption.

For example, by using energy efficient fluorescent lighting we directly save energy as well as reducing heat load, which further reduces energy used by the air conditioning equipment.