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Energy Intelligence Network with Real-Time Demand Response Monitoring

Solution Overview

This approach leverages enhanced data collection and monitoring infrastructure to enable businesses and institutions to strategically reduce electricity consumption during peak demand periods, thereby lowering costs while strengthening grid stability.[5] Pittsburgh businesses participating in these programs report return on investment ranging from 5% to 20% of their annual electricity costs, depending on their flexibility and commitment level.[1] The technology reduces energy costs and emissions while improving the resiliency of electric grid infrastructure.[5]

Technical Components

The Energy Intelligence Network expansion involved the installation of plug load monitors to enhance data quality and energy management capabilities.[3][5] Field testing of the Intelligent Dashboard for Occupants (ID-O) engaged 80 employees at a major Pittsburgh corporation in online communication, consultation and control supported by plug-in devices manufactured by Plugwise™ that measure the energy consumption of each device and provide digital on-off control.[2] The system enables real-time monitoring of individual device consumption including laptops, computer monitors, lights and phones, with capabilities for both information visibility and remote digital on-off control.[2]

Implementation Details

Pittsburgh City Council authorized a contract with Boss Control LLC to expand the Energy Intelligence Network through the installation of plug load monitors in an amount not to exceed $150,000.00.[3] The resolution was passed finally by Pittsburgh City Council on October 2, 2018, enacted as resolution number 660 on October 5, 2018, and signed by the Mayor with an effective date of October 8, 2018.[3] No upfront cost was incurred as part of this contract, with Boss Control LLC instead receiving a portion of the utility cost savings recognized as a result of the Energy Intelligence Network expansion.[3] Enerlogics has been acting as administrator for the Duquesne Light Demand Response Program since 2016, as part of Phase 3 of the Pennsylvania Act 129 Programs.[4] Duquesne Light Company and FirstEnergy (Penn Power) serve as the primary utility providers in the Pittsburgh region, each offering distinct demand response opportunities.[1] PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity in Pittsburgh and surrounding states, administers several demand response programs accessible through utilities or curtailment service providers.[1]

Benefits and Impacts

A CMU study showed that during a nine-month period, using the CMU Intelligent Dashboard ID-O offered significant energy savings for corporations, with savings most visible when laptops, computer monitors, lights and phones were turned off at night and during weekends.[2] Group C averaged 20.2 percent energy savings with energy use visibility and online control ability but without calendar automation, while Group B with information but no online control averaged 9 percent energy savings.[2] Enerlogics enabled Duquesne to achieve realization rates in excess of 100% of the targeted demand reduction in the first summer of the program operation (summer of 2017).[4] Duquesne Light Company offers both emergency and economic demand response options, with varying notification periods and compensation structures, while FirstEnergy Solutions provides demand response programs for businesses including day-ahead notifications and emergency response options.[1]

Climate Adaptation Relevance

This system addresses climate-related stress on electrical infrastructure by reducing peak demand during extreme weather events when grid strain is highest. The improved resiliency of electric grid infrastructure helps maintain power reliability during heat waves and other climate-driven demand surges that threaten service continuity.[5]

Business Analysis

The performance-based financial model eliminates upfront capital costs for municipal participants, with the service provider receiving compensation only from realized utility cost savings.[3] Pittsburgh businesses achieve returns ranging from 5% to 20% of annual electricity costs depending on their operational flexibility and program commitment level.[1] Multiple program structures exist through regional utilities, with Duquesne Light Company offering both emergency and economic demand response options with varying notification periods and compensation structures, while FirstEnergy Solutions provides programs including day-ahead notifications and emergency response options.[1] The Pennsylvania Act 129 Programs provide regulatory framework support for utility-administered demand response initiatives.[4]

Sources