The growth of the Internet of things (IoT) has transformed how people operate. Once isolated systems can now communicate and learn from each other through machine learning. Meanwhile, big data is giving teachers, students, education Facilities Managers, parents, and coworkers new ways to view the world and challenges they may face, asserts Engerati. The innovation behind the IoT, machine learning, and big data holds a great promise for efficient energy management, and applied to K-12 schools and institutions of higher learning, efficient energy management will grow more optimized and capable of leveraging the insane amount of data generated by more than 34 billion IOT-connected products. Of course, education Facilities Managers need to understand how this will transform everyday operations, what they mean for energy efficiency goals and practices, and a few tips for making the most of this digital revolution.

Education Facilities Managers Simply Don’t Know What to Do with the Mountain of Data

As noted in a recent survey, published by ResearchGate, the use of deep learning and analytics will lead to massive value additions in facilities deploying such technologies, amounting to more than $6.7 trillion per year by 2025. The volume of data generated by connected technologies and data is insurmountable, and Facilities Managers do not know what to do with it. Although its premise is great, failure to use data properly could result in severe realization rates of projected savings. In other instances, poor use of data can actually increase energy costs and decrease energy efficiency.

New Technologies Enhance Energy Efficiency Goals and Processes

The use of machine learning and artificial intelligence make up for the deficit in understanding how to use data in the modern world of facilities management. In education facilities management, the ability to leverage data properly includes encouraging behavioral change among building occupants, and artificial intelligence can help with the creation of such a culture. Automation in systems and prioritization of upgrades will enhance cost savings and validate investments in efficient energy management practices.

Tips for Using New Technologies for Efficient Energy Management

Every education Facilities Manager needs a few tips on how to leverage new technologies to grow investments faster and with greater prowess. Some of these tips may include:

• Use big data for investment and optimization decisions.
• Leverage machine learning to improve the accuracy of efficient energy management projections and validate results.
• Use artificial intelligence to automate system controls and align operations with building occupant needs.
• Use advanced reporting capabilities to collaborate between facilities and reduce the district’s energy consumption.
• Create a culture of acceptance of new technology for efficient energy management with the school board, student body, and faculty.  
• Get help when you need it, like using an on-site Energy Specialist to make sense of the data and what it means for your facility.

Plan for a Bright Efficient Energy Management Future in K-12 Schools Now

Advancement of efficient energy management will push the boundaries of cost savings and move all educational institutions toward sustainable practices and conservation of limited resources. As machine learning, the IoT and Big Data continue to become bigger stars in the path toward energy efficiency, the role of the education Facilities Manager will grow more complex. Make sure your facility is ready for the change by partnering with an experienced, proven energy management provider for K-12 schools, like Cenergistic. Learn more about Cenergistic by viewing our success stories and contacting us online or by calling 1-855-798-7779 now.