Pros and Cons of Wireless Building Automation Systems

5 Reasons To Think About Wireless Lighting Controls:

1. Opportunity: Lighting accounts for 25 to 35 percent of energy use in a commercial building.
2. Options: Wireless may be a cost effective way to add scheduling, daylight dimming, occupancy sensing, personal control and demand response capabilities, according to E-Source.
3. Savings: A wireless system with full dimming — including daylight dimming, high-end trim dimming, lumen maintenance dimming, and occupancy sensing using both wired and wireless occupancy sensors, wireless photocells, and wireless area controller, with dimming ballasts — has the potential to reduce energy use 49 percent compared to ASHRAE 90.1, according to a study by Clanton and Associates.
4. Commissioning: It's a necessity, regardless of whether lighting controls are wired or wireless, say experts.
5. Rebates: Some utilities offer incentives for lighting upgrades. Check www.dsireusa.org.

— Edward Sullivan, editor

When to Consider Wireless

There are many reasons to consider wireless building automation systems (BAS).

• When there is a desire or requirement to implement BAS networks in new, existing or retrofit buildings where wiring is a challenge.
• If adding more sensors and actuators throughout a building can further improve the comfort of occupants while reducing energy consumption.
• When wiring is either aesthetically undesirable or cost prohibitive (e.g., historical buildings).
• When there is a need to increase flexibility. Without a need to re-wire, tasks like re-locating or adding thermostats and sensors throughout a space become extremely easy, with a minimum of disruption to tenants.

— Gislene D. Weig