With end-to-end building automation from Beckhoff that tracks energy consumption across all technical systems, it couldn’t be easier to identify potential savings. Even simply the presence-based control of illumination and air-conditioning systems allows savings to be made without a major investment. Building-wide monitoring of all machines and systems helps to identify and distribute peak loads – plus plenty more besides – to achieve sustainable building operation at every level.
Unlocking potential with end-to-end automation:
- cost savings through reduced energy consumption
- rapid return on investment thanks to scalable and retrofittable technology
- elevated company image through sustainable action
The international ISO 50001 standard describes the structure of systematic energy management. This is based on monitoring energy flows within the company and assessing the energy efficiency of its systems and facilities. Beckhoff streamlines the process of setting up an energy management system (EnMS) by offering the possibility to measure energy consumption precisely where it takes place – anywhere within the company, in every area of the building, at every machine, and on every actuator. This is all based on the Beckhoff Bus Terminal System:
- data acquisition with over 400 different I/O terminals
- support for all common sensors and actuators
- support for meters for gas, water, compressed air, and heat
- transmission of large amounts of raw data (big data) via EtherCAT
- data pre-processing and analysis with TwinCAT Analytics
- high connectivity for the use of cloud services
- communication with higher-level EnMS via OPC UA
Around 40% of the world’s energy consumption occurs in buildings, highlighting an urgent need for action as resources become ever scarcer. With this in mind, planners, system integrators, and operators are urged to make the most of all potential savings and use energy as efficiently as possible. As a general rule, the higher the degree of automation, the greater the energy saving. With its end-to-end building automation concept, Beckhoff meets all requirements for the open-loop and closed-loop control of building functions in line with the highest energy efficiency class A, as specified in the European standard ISO 52120, which replaces EN 15232.
Our product highlights for energy-efficient buildings
Power and energy measurement
Machines and systems are dynamic in nature, going through various expansions, reductions, reconfigurations, and upgrades over the years. The same applies to buildings, properties, and all the technical systems they contain. When it comes to creating comprehensive transparency in complex system architectures, system-integrated energy and power measurement with Beckhoff is the recommended approach.
TwinCAT Lighting Solution
Configurable in no time without the need for programming – introducing our software solution for lighting management, which supports DALI-2 devices and their groupings. All main lighting control functions can be selected individually for each lighting group. The TF8050 supports common functions such as human-centric lighting, daylight control, and constant light regulation, as well as schedulers and timers for implementing individual controls. The lighting solution generates automatic optimizations in a whole new way. In addition to determining run-on times, it also provides the user with suggestions for a faster shutdown.
TwinCAT Building Automation
TwinCAT implements all building control functions in a software environment. This means maximum flexibility with low engineering costs and the possibility to carry out modifications or expansions during operation. As an end-to-end platform, TwinCAT provides HMI and PLC libraries for all building functions, from central heating and HVAC systems to room air conditioning, along with the technical systems required for illumination, shading, and façade control.
TwinCAT 3 IoT OCPP and EL6761 EtherCAT Terminal
With TF6771, TwinCAT supports the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). This standardizes the communication between charging stations for electric vehicles and the associated central management systems. In connection with the EL6761 EtherCAT Terminal, the result is a complete solution for charging infrastructure communication. It enables the control and integration of individual charging stations into the management system, as well as communication between several charging stations within a charging station park.
End-to-end building automation as the key to energy efficiency
Building automation with PC-based control promotes sustainability and energy efficiency in alignment with green building standards. All technical systems are integrated into a single platform: from HVAC, room automation, remote maintenance, and energy data acquisition through to operation and monitoring. To this end, we offer an extensive construction kit of hardware and software components, which can be used both in individual technical systems and across systems. Everyone involved can reap the benefits:
- architects can enjoy maximum design freedom with functional efficiency
- specialist planners benefit from increased planning reliability with reduced complexity
- system integrators can count on simplified engineering and greater process reliability
- operators can leverage significantly lower operating costs and maintenance effort
- investors can take advantage of maximum investment protection
For further information, visit our industry page for building automation.
Efficient building automation implemented with Beckhoff
Alsik Hotel sets a new standard for energy-efficient building operation
The Steigenberger Alsik Hotel & Spa in Sønderborg is not only the largest hotel in southern Denmark, but also one of the most sustainable and climate-friendly in the whole of northern Europe. Its high-tech solutions ensure energy-efficient control of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning while offering guests the utmost in comfort. The automation of these systems comes as a result of the continuous cooperation between Beckhoff and Danfoss.
Fully automated building operation offers significant energy savings
Building H is a pioneering property spanning 82,000 m2 in the Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone (WEDZ). The H-shaped floor plan makes optimal use of natural light for illumination, while the rooftop photovoltaic system boasts an energy generation capacity of over 200,000 kWh per year, which roughly covers the annual electricity consumption for illuminating the building. The building also features a rooftop rainwater collection system with a volume of 300 m3, which supplies recycled water for cleaning the building and watering the plants. This serves to minimize the consumption of both fresh water and energy. All of these systems are connected to the PC-based control system from Beckhoff, which ensures reliable operation.
Modern control technology for more flexible lighting and increased energy efficiency
Whether it’s in a showroom, on a display, or on sales shelves, lighting makes all the difference. The Italian department store group Bennet SpA has extensive experience in this field and is gradually equipping its 73 stores and 45 shopping centers with modern building automation. Established system integrator INTEREL Trading uses PC-based control from Beckhoff and DALI-2 to meet the operator’s requirements for flexible designs to create different lighting environments and a high level of energy efficiency.
Measure, connect, optimize – the benefits of Beckhoff technology are widespread:
Power generation
Control and monitor power plants, wind farms, solar plants, and hydrogen production efficiently with PC-based control.
Smart grids
Ensure intelligent energy distribution with transparent monitoring of availability and demand.
Efficient machinery
Optimize machines and plants with energy management and resource-saving automation.
