Maximizing Efficiency With PoE Automated Window Shades
In new commercial properties, smart building controls are now a baseline expectation. With Power over Ethernet (POE) technology, you can even connect your window treatments into the building's central management system. The right PoE automated window shades can improve energy efficiency, building performance and occupant comfort — and increase the value of leased space in the process.
Introduction to PoE Technology in Commercial Buildings
Power over Ethernet is a technology that transmits both power and data in the same cable. A PoE network delivers the DC power to run each connected device over CAT5/CAT6 Ethernet cables. At the same time, it establishes interoperability by enabling disparate systems to communicate and coordinate.
Originally, PoE networks were limited to low-voltage applications, such as LED lighting and wireless access points. Today, the latest PoE standards let commercial buildings connect higher-voltage devices, including computers, sensors, digital signs, and automated window shades.
Compared to traditional systems, which use two separate cables to handle power and data, PoE technology has a few key advantages. Ethernet cables are cheaper and faster to install, and the lower voltage increases building safety and reduces electricity costs. They're also more flexible and scalable — the cable transmits electricity, so there's no need to position devices near power outlets. Critically, the interconnected network enables remote access and integrated performance control.
Integrating Automated Window Shades With PoE
Automated window shades are one of the most innovative PoE applications for commercial buildings. These unique motorized shades adjust their position automatically to manage the building's interior temperature, glare and natural lighting.
When integrated into a PoE network, automated shades are easy to access and control remotely via the central building management system. Facilities managers can log in remotely to modify scheduling and optimize target temperatures based on factors such as seasonal weather shifts and foot traffic patterns.
Automated shades are most effective when connected to sensors that enable precise control without manual intervention. A daylight sensor, for example, detects when the sun moves into a position that's likely to create glare on occupants' computer screens. Using the PoE network, it communicates with the shades, which adjust accordingly. You can also incorporate occupancy sensors that change shade behavior when people are present. This is an effective way to boost comfort and energy efficiency in spaces that are not continually in use, such as conference rooms and individual offices.
Benefits of PoE Automated Window Shades
Whether you're retrofitting an older property or designing a new commercial building, PoE automated window shades have significant benefits for occupants, the environment and your bottom line.
Improved energy efficiency
PoE automated window shades can significantly improve the energy efficiency of a busy commercial building. They respond to changing environmental conditions to control the amount of solar heat that enters the space. In the summer, shades might be lower to block the sun; in the winter, a higher shade position can maximize direct sunlight and thermal energy. This reduces the load on the HVAC system, enabling it to use less energy to maintain a set temperature.
Because automated shades are connected to the devices on a PoE network, other systems can respond to their positional changes to further reduce electricity usage. When the shades rise, for example, a light sensor can detect the natural illumination and switch off the overhead lights.
Consistent occupant comfort
In commercial spaces with poorly regulated solar management, occupants are constantly shifting position or standing up to adjust window shades manually. PoE automated window shades respond to changing solar conditions throughout the day, creating a consistently comfortable interior environment.
Building employees benefit, too. Automatic shade operation reduces the workload for maintenance and facilities staff, giving them more time to focus on other tasks.
Improved occupant productivity
When occupants aren't preoccupied with glare and excess warmth, they tend to be more positive and productive. PoE automated window shades also maximize natural light, which has been proven to improve mood, mental health and physical health. The ripple effect of increased occupant comfort and productivity boosts overall occupant satisfaction and reduces tenant turnover, which helps your business remain resilient even in turbulent market conditions.
Sustainability
Sustainable building design is increasingly important in the evolving energy landscape. PoE automated window shades can play an important role in achieving sustainability for both new constructions and existing commercial spaces. The reduced energy consumption, optimized solar energy and improved occupant comfort can help your properties achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certifications.
Automated shades are most impactful when integrated into the design phase, but they also have powerful sustainability benefits in older properties. After all, retrofitting a building with automated shades is considerably more affordable and environmentally friendly than replacing the windows.
Simplified installation, maintenance and scalability
With PoE technology, it's faster and cheaper to install, maintain and expand your automatic window-shading system. The flexible, plug-and-play nature of PoE networks means you don't need complex wiring or programming to add or remove window shades — simply connect, disconnect and reconfigure units in any location without affecting the normal operations. And when the usage pattern of a room changes, the centralizing management system allows rapid adjustments to sensor and system settings.
Impact on Building Performance and ROI
In an ever-changing economic climate, building owners are calling for enhanced performance control and efficiency measures. PoE automated window shades can help by offering long-term benefits such as:
Cost savings. By reducing the energy usage in your building, PoE automated shades cut utility costs. Because they receive data and power over a single, affordable Ethernet cable, they're less expensive to install and maintain.
Building performance control. PoE connectivity ties your automated window shades into a centralized management system, allowing managers to monitor performance and quickly make adjustments to improve efficiency and occupant comfort. This streamlined workflow improves control and makes it easy to isolate problems.
Property value. Commercial tenants are under pressure from their customers and clients to improve sustainability, employee treatment and environmental impact. PoE automated window shades contribute to all three of these objectives, which increases property value and boosts long-term occupancy rates.
For new commercial building projects, PoE automated shades can have a big impact on return on investment (ROI). The benefits start during the build process. It's easier and cheaper to conceal Ethernet cables than traditional wires and conduit — especially in a modern building with a great deal of exposed glass. Because Ethernet cables are low-voltage, they can be pulled through the building without the supervision of a certified electrician. This flexibility saves time and money and streamlines the construction process, making it easier to stay on schedule.
Case Studies and Success Stories
As the need for commercial building efficiency and smart technology grows, PoE automated shading systems are growing in popularity. Cisco's PENN1 building in New York is a prime example. Developers wanted a flexible workspace that prioritized sustainability, interoperability and employee well-being. Mecho automated shades were a key component of the design. Paired with Mecho's SolarTrac software, the PoE-enabled shades met the building's initial goals and set the stage for future reconfigurations. The centralized control capability saved $200,000 on AV controllers alone.
For building owners and architects with an eye toward the future, PoE automated window shades are essential. After installing the shades in its headquarters, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission building uses up to 45% less electricity for lighting than traditional office buildings. PoE shades also adapt easily to new developments in sensor technology; at the Wichita State University NetApp Innovation Campus, they integrate seamlessly with daylight sensors, radiometers and lighting control systems.
Partnering With Contexture for Design-Assist
If you're looking for ways to improve energy efficiency, cost efficiency, sustainability and occupant comfort at your commercial building projects, Contexture's Design-AssistSM team can help. We encourage you to integrate PoE automated window shades early in the design process to reduce costs and streamline installation. Our experienced team works directly with architects and building owners to select the right materials and products to meet efficiency and design goals.
For expert guidance in integrating automated shading systems into your energy-efficient building controls to optimize the indoor environment, consult with Contexture today.