1.5.1 Use of multiple power strips with switch and/or programmable plugs
Description
The use of a power strip is recommendable especially in office buildings where many devices as computers, printers, monitors, etc… are usually left in standby mode, spending unnecessary energy during the night-time, holidays and weekends. Power strips could switch all electrical equipment of a working area simultaneously. Alternatively, programmable outlets can be used to allow automatic on and off based on schedules selected by users.
Benefits
The energy consumption reduction potential is up to 15% of the consumption under normal operation conditions
Easy and cheap installation
Avoid internal heat gains
Limitations
Occupant acceptance
Power strips may create a parasitic load, which must be included in the analysis of total costs savings potential
Economic assessment
Initial investment: low. The price varies depending on the type of equipment that is purchased, being for the power strips and conventional programmable plugs between 5 and 20 euros.
References and best practices
Reducing office plug loads through simple and inexpensive advanced power strips:
CHARACTERIZATION
Environment or playable world:
Residential
Academic
Offices
All
Carried out by:
Public building users
Owners
Operators
All
Reduce consumption of:
Heating
Cooling
DHW
Lighting
Electric devices
Type of driver:
Physical environmental
Contextual
Psychological
Physiological
Social
Time framework:
- Short term
- Long term
Type of measure:
- Envelope
- HVAC
- DHW
- Lighting
- Electrical devices
- Other