Computer energy management systems problems and resolutions

Summary form only given, as follows. Factors that influence the degree in which the acquisition and continued operation of new and fairly complex technologies are successful have been investigated. The study examines 14 multi-building sites in which computer energy manager systems (CEMS) were installed. A CEMS includes hardware, sensors, software, programming, analysis, and dynamic systems controls. The average age of an installation is eight years. Three measures of success are compared relative to 25 factors identified as likely to influence success. The factors fall into eight categories: age, size, scope, installation, plant condition, vendor support, in-house staffing, and system components. The findings suggest that being a customer on the cutting edge of an evolving arrangement of new technologies is very risky. Very close supervision and the development and maintenance of in-house competence relative to the new technologies can offset the risk. Rapid development in computer hardware and software overcomes early problems, but poses challenges in transitioning from one generation to the next