Sub-Metering

Cost Control and Reduction

Sub-metering allows businesses to:

• Identify energy waste in specific areas or equipment.
• Target energy-saving measures where they are most needed.
• Avoid unnecessary energy costs by pinpointing inefficient systems.

Example: A factory can use sub-meters to track which production lines consume the most energy and take steps to improve efficiency.

Accurate Cost Allocation

In multi-tenant buildings or facilities with multiple departments, sub-metering enables:

• Fair billing by accurately measuring each tenant’s or department’s energy use.
• Encouraging responsible energy use by making users accountable for their consumption.

Example: In a shared office space, sub-metering can allocate energy costs to tenants based on their actual usage rather than splitting the bill equally.

Equipment Performance Monitoring

Sub-meters can monitor the energy consumption of individual pieces of equipment, helping to:

• Detect inefficiencies or equipment malfunctions early.
• Schedule preventative maintenance before equipment fails.
• Ensure that new equipment is performing as expected.

Example: If an HVAC system suddenly uses more energy than usual, the sub-meter can alert facility managers to a potential issue, preventing costly repairs.

Supports Sustainability Goals

Sub-metering helps businesses achieve their carbon reduction targets by:

• Providing accurate baseline data for energy consumption.
• Measuring the impact of energy-saving initiatives (e.g., LED lighting, voltage optimisation).
• Encouraging behavioural change by making energy use more visible.

Example: A school can monitor how much energy is saved by installing solar panels or upgrading to energy-efficient lighting.

Improved Facility Management

Sub-metering helps facility managers:

• Optimise energy usage schedules (e.g., staggering equipment start-up times).
• Identify underperforming areas or buildings within a portfolio.
• Make data-driven decisions to improve energy efficiency.

Example: A retail chain with multiple stores can use sub-meters to compare energy usage across locations and identify which stores need upgrades or staff training.

Compliance with Energy Regulations

Sub-metering can help businesses meet energy reporting requirements and comply with regulatory frameworks such as:

• ISO 50001 (Energy Management Systems).
• Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS).
• Net Zero and carbon reduction targets.

Example: Sub-metering data can be used to generate reports for regulatory audits and prove compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Encouraging Energy Accountability

Sub-metering promotes a culture of energy awareness and accountability:

• Employees and tenants are more likely to reduce energy use if they can see their consumption.
• Provides a feedback loop for energy-saving behaviors.

Example: A warehouse team might reduce forklift charging during peak hours if they see their energy usage spikes on a dashboard.