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What is an Energy Management System (EMS)? EMS is a computer based software tool utilized to address and control thermal comfort in building spaces. These systems are controlled by microprocessor boards (typically a mini-computer) connected to sensors, relays, control devices, and communication lines. All cooling plants, heating plants, and most air handlers are operated to control settings, which are programmed into the microprocessors. The programs are written in computer logic language similar to the following:

IF OUTSIDE AIR TEMP IS LESS THAN 50 DEGREE THEN BOILER#1 ON

ASU currently has thousands of program lines of code, with more than ten thousand control points throughout the campus. The primary purpose of the building automation systems is to operate the heating and cooling systems as efficiently as possible, while providing desired environmental comfort to building occupants. EMS can also report alarm conditions like fire, too hot, too cold, and equipment failures to University Police Department and Facilities Management personnel for prompt attention.

Until recently, Facilities Management relied upon contracted firms including Honeywell, Johnson Controls, and Trane to install and maintain campus energy management systems. Currently, Facilities Management primarily utilizes an EMS brand named Computrols. Computrols is a very powerful and user friendly system that allows Facilities Management in-house skilled labor to install HVAC controls on renovated systems and on new construction. This ability dramatically improves FM's serviceability of HVAC system and the improvement of campus energy efficiency.