Metering can save up to 25%
May 1st 2006

Practice shows that where metering is introduced savings of 10-25% can be achieved. They provide information for consumers to take action for energy conservation, bench marking or monitoring and targeting, writes David Philips of Switch2 Energy Solutions.

It is not possible to set up a monitoring system by using the main utility meters alone; a level of sub-metering is required.

The highest cost energy is the obvious starting point. For some it's electricity and gas but many who use compressed air do not realise its true cost.

For instance, a 1 mm hole in a compressed air line can cost over £100 per year. A metering system can identify when and how much energy is being used, which in turn enables consumers to take effective measures or qualify savings made.

There are many automatic meter reading systems to choose from. Dedicated radio meter reading frequencies are available, where small battery transmitters are used, wired systems, mains born and internet, all provide cost effective solutions of transferring data from the meter to the spreadsheet with little risk of transcription errors, inaccessible meters or rain soaked meter reading sheets.

Sub-metering is now a must for quality, climate change levy, building regulations, energy conservation, bench marking or monitoring and targeting.

Advantage can now be taken for 'metering systems' - where meters, AMR, software and installation are provided - and of Enhanced Capital Allowances.

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