BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
WITH REAL-TIME ENERGY MANAGEMENT
management becomes even more compelling when we consider the transformation underway in the retail electricity market. We are entering a new era of flexible energy pricing, presenting exciting opportunities for enhanced energy efficiency and optimisation. Real-time monitoring enables retailers to navigate this shift effectively, allowing them to capitalise on favourable pricing changes and avoid potential penalties. In a flexible pricing market, time-of-use
(ToU) pricing strategies become incredibly important. Armed with a complete picture of energy consumption patterns across their stores, retailers can make smarter decisions about when and how to use energy. For example, if a solar and battery system is
in place, excess solar energy generated during the day can be used to pre-cool freezer units. This allows freezers to be turned off for an hour or two after sunset when solar production drops and grid electricity prices typically peak, reducing costs without compromising the integrity of stored perishable goods. Additionally, by using excess energy in this way, businesses can avoid violating grid export regulations, which limit how much energy can be exported to the grid. This is important as exceeding these limits can result in hefty fines. The evolving energy landscape also presents opportunities for retailers to engage in energy
arbitrage – storing solar energy or buying and storing energy from the grid when prices are low and then selling it back when prices rise. At this point, the focus shifts from simply saving money to generating revenue, an attractive prospect for any business. By ingesting market operator data and tariff feeds and combining them with on-site energy information, real-time management systems enable intelligent energy trading. This enhances decision-making by enabling retailers to monitor market conditions and energy prices in real time and automatically buy and sell energy when trading conditions are more favourable. While this process is still at an early stage, it’s
important for businesses to proactively consider their energy strategies, particularly when planning new onsite generation assets. For example, I think we’ll begin to see more commercial operators intentionally oversize solar PV systems to produce more energy than they need in order to take full advantage of energy trading opportunities.
SUSTAINABLE RETAIL OPERATIONS The integration of real-time
energy visibility within the supermarket sector is not just a technological advancement, it represents a vital shift towards more sustainable and efficient retail operations. As highlighted by Sainsbury’s, successful implementation of a real-time energy management system, the potential benefits are significant – ranging from substantial cost savings and enhanced operational resilience to compliance with both internal and external carbon reduction goals. As retailers confront rising energy demands and a rapidly shifting market landscape, the ability to monitor and manage energy consumption in real time will become essential. By leveraging innovations in solar technology and advanced analytics, supermarkets can optimise their energy use and engage in energy arbitrage, not only to meet current demands but also to position themselves for a more profitable and sustainable future. With the right systems in
place, supermarkets can position themselves as leaders in sustainability while navigating the complexities of a dynamic energy market.
Jordan Appleson
Hark Systems
https://harksys.com/
TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION - ADVERTORIAL
CleanTech Wholesale Launches AI-Powered Model to Empower Installers and Disrupt Traditional Energy Distribution
Callidus Wholesale became CleanTech Wholesale today, leading the UK’s energy revolution by empowering installers with a frictionless supply chain using technology.
The rebrand is a strategic move to position the company as a champion for the independent, ambitiousprofessionals who are the true future of the renewable energy sector.
For decades, the energy distribution industry has been defined by slow, impersonal corporations - the old guard. CleanTech Wholesale is built to dismantle that system. The company’s new AI-first model and streamlined logistics are a direct rebellion against the inefficient practices that have long held installers back.
David Martini, Founder and Managing Director of CleanTech Wholesale.
“This is more than a name change. It’s a statement of intent. It’s a dynamic mix of technological use and human-centric values. This new approach frees up time that allows us to spend more real-life moments with our partners - the installers.” says David Martini, Founder and Managing Director of CleanTech Wholesale. David Martini, Founder and Managing Director of CleanTech Wholesale. This rebrand is a promise to the thousands of installers who want to grow their business and achieve sovereignty.
www.essmag.co.uk
CleanTech Wholesale’s offering is designed to be their competitive advantage, providing:
• A Frictionless Supply Chain: The company’s intelligent platform and streamlined logistics eliminate wasted time and frustration.
• An Unfair Advantage: A curated hub of educational content and cutting-edge technology gives installers the tools to stay ahead of the curve.
• A Genuine Partnership: A commitment to human connection and personalised service, which is a direct contrast to the cold, corporate approach of the old guard.
CleanTech Wholesale is built for the lean and agile installers that will define the future of energy. This rebrand is the blueprint for their victory
https://www.cleantechwholesale.co.uk ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Winter 2025 19
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