Local Law 97, one of the most ambitious plans for reducing emissions in the nation, goes into effect in 2024 and property owners and operators are taking a hard look at outdated systems and making necessary upgrades.
One way building owners and operators are “future-proofing” their buildings is through Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. While the technology itself has been around for decades, recent advancements in the system as well as upcoming carbon emission reporting with LL97, building owners and operators are making the transition to PoE for power delivery and data management now more than ever.
Our team works with leading system providers to build spaces centered around PoE infrastructure. Learn more about the advantages of PoE building infrastructure including insights from Digital Building Solutions Founder and CEO, Scott Panzer, below:
The Basics of PoE
To put it simply, PoE is a technology that uses network cables to carry power, instead of standard electrical power cords and wiring. This enables a single cable to provide both a data connection and electrical power to PoE devices such as wireless access points, lighting, cameras, and VoIP phones. In addition, the infrastructure operates under universal protocols and physical form factors, allowing for seamless deployment, scalability and serviceability worldwide.
Reduces Operating Costs
A key advantage(s) in utilizing PoE technology is the considerable cost savings associated with power, material, labor, and maintenance. Unlike electrical applications, PoE lighting is connected to the IT system and combined with motion sensors and small processors, which provide additional energy savings by only lighting areas with inhabitants.
Construction cost and time to completion are drastically reduced as well as eliminates the the use of costly electrical conduit and high voltage copper wire- materials known to be high in embodied energy and carbon.
Source: Cisco (https://blogs.cisco.com/networking/3-reasons-to-use-poe-lighting)
Improved Systems Through Automation and Personalization
In addition to lowering operating costs, integrated POE systems can enhance occupant health, wellness, and productivity with various automation and personalization features within the workplace. From circadian lighting and automated window shades to multi-level sensor controlled HVAC, building owners and tenants can take full control of their work environment.
Scott Panzer, Founder and CEO of Digital Building Solutions, is a long-time L&K project partner providing innovative design and POE integrations for commercial facility upgrades and interior fit-outs.
“One of the main ways we are seeing operators take advantage of POE technology to enhance user wellbeing”, highlights Scott, “is through the infinite amounts of data that can be transmitted over the category cables that are providing power to the sensors. And then using that in an AI manner to improve the overall air quality and temperature of the environment.”
Flexibility of Design and Space
PoE can assist in the design and spatial planning of an office, while contributing to a more professional and organized look for the overall environment. PoE devices can be installed in areas where traditional power cabling and outlets are unavailable, costly, or difficult to install.
Without being tethered to an AC power source, devices such as interior light fixtures can be located wherever they are needed most and repositioned easily if required. Additionally, eliminating the need for separate power cords reduces clutter and simplifies cable management.
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PoE technology continues to advance and proves to be a leading resource when it comes to transitioning properties to a more eco-conscious model.
According to Scott, PoE is here to stay.
“Looking ahead, AI will take PoE and the infrastructure platform into the 22nd century ahead of all other platforms and bi-directional DC (solar and wind turbines on buildings) will allow for reduced grid power needs” comments Scott.
By partnering with Digital Building Systems and network providers such Cisco, our team at L&K Partners help businesses stay ahead of the curve, delivering spaces in accordance to environmental goals as well as enhancing user wellbeing.
For more information on Digital Building Solutions and services provided, head to their website at https://dbs-poe.com/