Energy system optimization to reach conservation targets

Sri Lanka may represent a second 'wave' to the energy-efficiency boom started in the past few years in developed nations such as the USA.

"We have realized that energy-efficiency measures make sense from the standpoint of energy security, limiting the impact of high oil prices and fighting pollution," Director General Sustainable Energy Authority, M.M.R. Padmasiri said in relation to the revolutionary money-saving operational strategies that Perth Eco Power, a pioneer in the energy conservation services has implemented recently.

He said that the installation of the new systems which does not impact bottom lines, but will add to them and will assist organizations to lower their energy procurement costs. Energy costs in the 21st century signify a huge expense for any organization, he said, adding, "Today more than ever, it's vital to control energy spending to manage costs."

Padmasiri said by using existing technologies that would pay for itself in future energy savings, consumers and businesses could save some $600 billion a year by 2020. "This is because as they save a lot expense on maintenance and repairs, the intelligent energy management systems that are installed will provide incentives for utilities to improve energy efficiency and encourage customers to do the same."

Sri Lankan born Australian energy conservation award winner Dammica Wickramaratne said that over 20 percent of the energy in commercial buildings is used for Heating, Ventilation and Cooling (HVAC). He said that the in the existing HVAC systems used in buildings, there is a consumption of about 50 to 60% of the total energy Buildings are the main power consumers and is the largest consumer in upgrade their existing HVAC systems and the introduce cutting edge energy management systems affordable to any corporate.

Perth Eco Power entered the Sri Lankan market through its subsidiary, Lanka Energy conservation, Having installed Sri Lanka's latest energy optimization project at Cinnamon Grand and Seylan Towers, he said that the system that was installed has already begun to show a considerable saving, to meet the sustainable energy conservation target of the nation .

The hotel is now exploring the savings that will be made in the next 20 years. The bank will reduce the monthly energy bill by 15 percent.

Padmasiri added that businesses seize the initiative on energy productivity and will cut their energy costs, insulate themselves from future energy shocks, and secure a more sustainable development path-benefits that are all the more desirable given the current global financial turmoil.

"What this means in layman's terms is that for lesser power you will have the same work done," he said.