The EPMS monitors the electrical distribution system, typically providing
data on overall and specific power consumption, power quality, and event
alarms. Based on that data the system can assist in defining, and even initiat-
ing, schemes to reduce power consumption and power costs. The schemes
“shed” power and are triggered by predetermined thresholds such as certain
levels of power demand or a particular time of day when resource consump-
tion is high. The EPMS can manage event alarms, calculate usage trends, track
and schedule maintenance, troubleshoot, and “bill back” metered power usage
to specific users or tenants.
Typical systems monitor the power service entrance of a building or cam-
pus, switchgear, generators, network protectors, switchboards, panel boards,
uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), emergency power generation, and more.
The components of an EPMS include monitoring and control devices
(Fig. 5.1).
EPMS Server and
Workstation Network Room
UPS
Power
Distribution
Unit
Switchgear TransferSwitch SwitchgearBuilding
ETHERNET NETWORK
Motor
Control
Center
Distribution
Generator Panel Switchboard
Power Utility Entrance
and Switchgear Building Switchgear Room
Network
Protector
Distribution
Panel
Submeter Control PanelLighting
Local
Panel
Typical Building Floor
Distribution
Figure 5.1 Electric power management system.
60 Smart Building Systems for Architects, Owners, and Builders