The smart future of energy management: why an Energy Management System (EMS) matters.

The smart future of energy management: why an Energy Management System (EMS) matters

Introduction:
The energy market is changing rapidly. With growing demand for sustainable solutions and the electrification of sectors such as transport and production, effective energy management has become essential. An Energy Management System (EMS) plays a crucial role in this. In this article, we explain what an EMS is, how it works, and why businesses can no longer do without it. We also share insights from our experience with implementations across different sectors, including transport and commercial buildings.

What is an Energy Management System (EMS)?
An EMS is an advanced platform that helps businesses monitor, optimise, and manage their energy use in real time. The system connects different energy flows, such as generation, for example from solar panels, storage through battery systems, and consumption from assets such as charging points or production equipment. The aim is to use energy more efficiently and reduce costs by aligning supply and demand intelligently.

The modular structure of an EMS
An EMS is built up from different software modules that can be applied to suit each specific situation. This means businesses only use the modules that are relevant to their needs. These may include modules for energy storage, generation, or demand management. One strong example is the dynamic charging module, where fast chargers within a charging infrastructure are controlled dynamically. In situations where available capacity is limited, this module ensures that the available power is directed to the charger with the highest priority, so that vehicles with the greatest charging need are given precedence.

How does an EMS work?
An EMS collects data from different sources, such as sensors and smart meters, and uses that information to develop an optimal energy management plan. For example, the system can reduce peak loads on the electricity grid by storing surplus energy in a battery and deploying it later when demand is higher.

In one of our projects, we implemented an EMS connected to a battery system with dedicated storage capacity. This system not only absorbs peak loads, but also supports the charging of electric vehicles. Thanks to the smart software, the battery can deliver exactly the right amount of energy when it is needed.

The benefits of an EMS for businesses

1. Cost savings
   Through smart energy management, an EMS can reduce energy costs, especially during peak periods when tariffs are higher.
2. Efficiency
   By storing energy when demand is low and using it during peak periods, businesses optimise their energy use.
3. Sustainability
   An EMS helps businesses reduce their CO₂ emissions by maximising the use of renewable energy sources.
4. Future readiness
   With an EMS, businesses can prepare for future energy needs and challenges, such as rising demand for charging points for electric vehicles.

The role of battery storage within an EMS
An important part of our EMS is its integration with battery systems. These systems store surplus energy and feed it back when demand exceeds supply. This is especially valuable in sectors where a continuous power supply is essential, such as transport and logistics. By integrating a battery with smart software, a business can support its electrification plans efficiently.

Case study: our EMS in action at Schotpoort Connect
‍At Schotpoort Connect, the EMS plays a crucial role in the efficient management of energy for its charging infrastructure. The EMS controls four dual fast chargers of 80 kW each, together with a public fast charger of 280 kW and a battery of 500 kW with 1,100 kWh of storage capacity. Within a contracted capacity of 170 kW, of which part is already used by other operations, the EMS ensures that the limits of the contracted capacity are not exceeded.

In addition, there is 1.65 MWp of solar energy on the roofs of the warehouses. The EMS makes the best possible use of this renewable source by directing as much of the solar energy as possible straight to the chargers for charging electric trucks. As soon as there are no charging requests, the EMS ensures that the battery is charged as much as possible with solar energy for later use. In this way, the system safeguards stable charging processes and contributes to the strongest possible business case for Schotpoort Connect.

Conclusion:
With an Energy Management System, businesses are ready for the future. It not only provides insight into energy use, but also helps organisations operate sustainably and cost-consciously. In a world where sustainability is becoming ever more important, an EMS is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.

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