If energy is in high demand, it is going to cost more, as dictated by normal supply and demand rules. If an enterprise wants to take advantage of energy price reductions through a demand response program, it can utilize a new technology – DRAM. Stores, retail operations and hotels can use the various controls and software, as part of this energy-saving solution, without it interfering in their other operations.
Advanced technology, DRAM, or Demand Response and Advanced Metering, monitors energy use within given parameters to help reduce usage during peak demand. This type of monitoring helps to set the best price for energy usage and ensures reliability and optimization. Furthermore, the company’s carbon foot print can be reduced, which is a great help in the battle against global warming.
When it comes to pricing energy, there are various different methods available. When prices are set in advance for a specific time, this is called real-time pricing, but if the pricing is set in advance but can only be changed twice a year, it is called time of use pricing. If different prices are required for different time periods, this is called dynamic pricing, whereas critical demand at certain hours or on certain days calls for critical peak pricing.
Demand response, as featured in DRAM technology, entails a concerted effort to reduce energy usage during times of high demand. Many companies are looking to reduce their energy costs and retain control of their usage and thus this type of program is increasing in popularity throughout the United States.
The Advanced Metering portion of the DRAM acronym refers to a system that captures energy usage information on an hourly or other interval schedule. This type of advanced metering allows enterprises to take advantage of price-based demand response programs. Specialized software allows for data management that tracks and records energy usage.
Using DRAM programs and controls, a company can use a computer established anywhere around the world to control lighting, equipment, HVAC and backup generators. Remote controls can be used to handle an entire energy demand system through the use of an administrative interface. Demand response execution can be anticipated within several different energy scenarios and a centralized system can be established no matter how many sites or locations.
Retail enterprises can set up a web enabled network system to help them identify energy loads for curtailment. Through the use of DRAM, computerized controls and software, electrical loads can be better managed during peak times. Curtailments can be tested and verified and companies can enjoy automatic notification for demand response needs.
There are several providers of enterprise energy management services, but the best ones are those that offer energy response services through an integrated web channel. This allows all types of commercial, institutional and industrial businesses to control their energy consumption and reduce demand. In doing so, they can take advantage of special cost-saving programs, such as incentives and rebates.