The Microsoft Cloud Is Helping Cut Energy Waste in Buildings

A few years ago, it seemed unlikely that we would be using virtual technology systems and applications to monitor and conserve energy in buildings. Today, though, it doesn’t seem as far-fetched of an idea. The reality is that cloud-based computing is now being used to increase the energy-efficiency and overall eco-friendliness of commercial structures.

The Cloud Is Conserving Resources

Thanks to Microsoft’s skilled developers, the company has put its dedicated cloud program to good and — ultra cost-effective — use throughout its 145 buildings in Washington state. With an energy bill amounting to over $55 million each year, it’s no surprise that this business is employing any idea to cut back.

Nearly 50, 000 heating and cooling units are housed inside these facilities, all of which are now maintained by a network of integrated sensors that continually log and upload data into the cloud environment. This means that  whenever there is a breakdown or if a piece of equipment is on the verge of malfunctioning, the company’s crew of mechanical engineers are notified instantly.

It does not take much to realize how time-consuming and expensive it would be to have technicians performing routine, physical checks on this volume of heating and cooling units. Microsoft launched the project in 2008 with hopes of netting a 3 to 6 percent annual return on their facility-wide utility bills, only to find that potential savings are and will continue to be far greater.

Only time will tell how effective and efficient Microsoft’s energy-saving measures will be, but one thing that can be said with certainty is that it makes for a beneficial return on investment.

Want to learn how you can cut back on your utility bills? Contact us today at Empire Heating & Air to discuss your options.

Image Courtesy of: Flickr