Energy Saving in Existing Buildings

To implement energy saving solutions in existing buildings could be not an easy task. Especially, when you need to do it discreetly, not to interrupt the customer`s business processes. But, nevertheless, it is possible to install motion detectors in corridors, stairs and toilets. Motion detectors can automatically control the lighting system and save to a customer more than 70% of the annual electricity consumption. The issue of energy saving is getting more actual in Serbia after the electricity price increase.

In March 2023, I asked for a meeting with the head of the facility management of all RTS buildings (Radio and Television of Serbia). It turned out that they were looking for the energy saving solutions in their buildings in order to get the economical effect with electricity bills. The main building of RTS, which still remembers the bombing of Belgrade in 1999, was chosen as the pilot project. The building is in use and it was necessary to do the installation in such a way that it would not interfere with the working rhythm of the company`s employees.

I suggested to install in corridors for this purpose the most popular motion detector model - ESYLUX MD-C 360i/24. These detectors have a range of 24 m (in diameter), a built-in light value sensor and the 16A relay with a switch-off timer with a range of 1-30 minutes. The motion detector MD-C 360i/24 can be configured and controlled from the remote control, but in 99% of cases this is not necessary, since the factory settings are optimal out of the box. Motion detectors were installed in suspended ceiling (“Armstrong” type) in a phase-cut before groups of luminaires. If a corridor is long, the detectors can be connected in parallel and they will work as a single group.

In April, we helped the customer to select and place the correct motion detectors on the building floor plans. Then, in May, the official tender was held (RTS is the state organization) and the equipment was delivered. The installation was done by the customer’s own electrical service. And yesterday I have inspected this building in Belgrade. All motion detectors are installed and working without any problems.

An interesting point: when I wanted to show to the facility management team the nuances of setting up detectors from the remote control, it turned out that all of them did not respond to the remote control. I found out that local electricians for some reason switched the internal jumper (dip-switch) to the position when the detector reads the parameters from potentiometers, and not from the remote control. I asked them: “Why did you do this? You had 2 remote controls in your order?” They said that they thought that if the building suddenly will lose its power supply, all the detectors settings will be lost. In fact, the design of all detectors has an energy-independent memory (battery), and even with a long power outage, the detector will not lose its settings.

Now there is the pilot test of the automatic lighting control in this building. The customer seems to be satisfied. Ahead are 17 buildings more in Belgrade, which are the property of RTS.

If saving energy is actual for your building, contact RBTT Consultants DOO and we will offer the best suitable solution for your case.

Author: Andrey Golovin, Director of RBTT Consultants DOO