Print this page Energy Efficiency: Plug Load Management
Lee Layton, P.E.
Course Outline
The course begins by defining the scope plug load energy consumption including a discussion of the types of devices that typically comprise plug loads. Chapter Two discusses methodologies to control plug loads, including users energy saver modes already incorporated into many devices as well as how to use advanced power strips (APS) to manage the load. Chapter Three is a representative review of several commercially available products that will help you manage plug load energy consumption.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
After taking this course you should:
- Understand meaning of Plug Loads;
- Understand the energy consumption of plug loads;
- Know the energy consumption of common office plug loads in both active and standby modes;
- Be able to explain the different energy saving modes in computer equipment;
- Be able to explain the different types of advanced power strips on the market;
- Know how the different types of APS’s operate;
- Know the advantages and disadvantages of each type of APS;
- Know the features of several of the APS devices currently on the market; and
- Understand how to apply APS’s in an office environment.
This course is intended for anyone who want to understand how LEDs can be used to lower energy consumption.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for those who are concerned about reducing electrical energy consumption, especially as it relates to plug loads.
Benefit to Attendees
The United States is in a period of rising energy costs and consumers need to look at all possible options to reduce energy consumption. This course gives the reader practical tips to reduce energy consumption from plug load devices.
Course Introduction
Consumer electronics, office equipment and other equipment that is plugged into electrical outlets are called “plug loads” and consume 15 to 20 percent of total residential and commercial electricity in the United States. Much of this energy is consumed when these devices operate in low-power modes but are not actually in use. Any device that plugs into wall outlets distributed throughout a building is a plug load. These loads do not relate to general lighting, heating, ventilation, cooling, or water heating, and typically do not provide comfort to the occupants. Plug loads account for an average of 9% and perhaps as much as 30% of the electricity consumption in office buildings depending upon the nature of the work.
One way to reduce this unnecessary electricity consumption is to use smart plug strips. Smart plug strips vary in design, but typically employ some combination of load sensors, remote controls, occupancy sensors, and timers to automatically power down plug loads when they are not in use.
By automatically turning off plug loads when not in use, smart plug strips can provide energy savings in residential and commercial sectors. Applications for smart plug strips include workstations, home offices, and home entertainment systems.
This course looks at the size of the problem, strategies that can be used to mitigate the problem, and discusses devices that may help minimize plug load energy consumption.
Course Content
This course content is in the following PDF document:
Energy Efficiency: Plug Load Management
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Course Summary
Plug loads are a large – and growing – electrical load. Many products have standby and sleep modes to reduce usage during idle periods, but this capability is often not utilized appropriately. Control systems, which automatically reduce consumption after a preset time is the most effective method of reducing plug load energy consumption
A complex array of technologies that can meter and control office equipment has emerged in the marketplace. Control strategies that match office equipment energy use to user work schedules can save considerable energy in most office buildings. These control strategies are also effective in reducing peak demand.
Developing an appropriate plug load management process can have a significant influence on the success of energy reduction goals. This may include behavioral change mechanisms, controls systems, or other policies.
The most effective method for reducing plug loads is through a control system, which turns off plug load devices after 15 minutes of no occupancy. In office environments, plug loads can be managed through “biggest loser” type competitions that encouraging workers to manage their plug loads better than their co-workers. Informational pieces, brochures, posters, etc, have been found to be largely ineffective at encouraging workers to reduce energy consumption.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
