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Energy management is essential in today’s business buildings. Energy and utility costs account for about 40% of the money needed to run an office building. 

Energy costs keep going up, and people care more about being green. That’s why it’s crucial to use energy wisely.  

Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) is leading the way towards energy efficiency. They offer smart solutions to manage energy use well. 

BEMS helps cut down on energy use and costs. They also make buildings work better overall. 

In a time when saving energy and being eco-friendly are super important, managing how much energy buildings use is a big deal. Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) is the answer.  

They’re smart systems that let building owners and managers monitor, control, and improve energy use.  

This saves a lot of money and helps the environment. This blog will discuss BEMS, why they’re good, and how they make the world greener. 

What is a Building Energy Management System (BEMS)?

A Building Energy Management System (BEMS) is a fancy system designed to monitor, control, and manage a building’s energy use.  

Instead of doing things old-fashioned, a BEMS integrates different building parts into one system, such as heating, cooling, LED lights, and power. This makes managing the building’s energy use easier across various locations. 

In a time when energy costs keep going up, and people care more about the environment, BEMS are essential.  

They help businesses save a lot of money on running their buildings and help the environment by using less energy and producing less pollution.  

Monitoring and improving how much power is used makes buildings work better and saves money. 

Building Management Systems Becomes Smart Building Management Systems: Brief History of BEMS

Building energy management systems, like intelligent systems for managing how much energy buildings use, are new. Many eco-friendly buildings use BEMS, heat pumps, and other new tech to reduce pollution.  

In Australia, the greenest buildings today use 38% less energy per square foot and are mainly powered by electricity. Let’s look back at how BEMS came to be and how it changed how commercial buildings work.

Integration and Convergence:

Buildings became more complicated in the 1980s and 1990s. People needed a way to manage all the different parts, like lighting, heating, and security, in one place.  

That’s when Building Management Systems (BMS) came along. They combined all these parts into one system, making things easier to control. This was just the start of what would become today’s advanced BEMS.

Digital and Technological Advancement with Data Usage:

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, technology was changing fast. Sensors and the internet became widespread.  

This allowed Energy Management Systems (EMS) to use real-time data to keep track of things. It made monitoring more accurate, improved efficiency, and let people predict when maintenance was needed.

Smart Building Management Systems

Going Green and Sustainability:

In the 2000s, the world started caring more about being green. Energy Management Systems (EMS) became important not just for saving money but also for reducing pollution. People began to follow standards for eco-friendly buildings.

Getting Smart with IoT:

In the 2010s, the Internet of Things (IoT) made BEMS even brighter. Buildings became ‘smart’ with devices that talked to each other, improving control and energy savings. Everything could be adjusted based on real-time data.

AI Usage:

Today, the best BEMS use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. They don’t just react to what’s happening now; they predict what will happen next.  

By looking at past data, weather, and the number of people in the building, they can plan to save energy and work more efficiently. 

From simple control systems in the past to today’s high-tech, predictive BEMS, these systems have changed a lot with technology and what society cares about, especially when it comes to being eco-friendly and making buildings more smart.  

Essential Features to Look for in a BEMS

When considering a Building Energy Management System (BEMS), it is crucial to ensure it has the right features for your building’s goals and tech setup.  

Here are the main things you should look for:  

Problem Detection and Diagnosis:

A good BEMS can find and diagnose problems quickly, helping keep your building running smoothly. It can even predict issues before they become big, saving money and keeping things working.

Integration with Different Systems:

Your BEMS should integrate with the systems you already have in your building. This way, it can gather and analyze data from all your systems, which is essential for managing energy well.  

Monitoring Capability in Real Time:

It’s crucial to monitor your building’s energy use constantly. A good BEMS can provide real-time updates on energy use, helping you spot where you might be wasting energy and how to use it better.  

User Friendly Usage Systems :

Your BEMS should be easy for anyone, even if they’re not tech experts. It should have a simple interface that’s easy to understand. It should be accessible from anywhere to monitor things and make changes when needed, even if you’re not in the building.  

Physical Components of BEMS

Energy Efficiency

Sensors and Meters: BEMS uses sensors and meters to get info like temperature, humidity, light levels, how many people are around, and how much energy is being used, all in real time. 

Controllers: This system uses controllers to control and automate different parts of the building based on the info it gets. For example, it might adjust the air conditioning, turn lights on and off, or manage electricity use during busy times. 

Communication Networks: BEMS requires communication networks to send info between sensors, controllers, and the leading management software. These networks can be wired (like with cables) or wireless, depending on how the building is set up. 

Main Management Software: This is like the brain of the BEMS. It analyses the sensor information and decides how to use energy best and keep the building comfortable. 

User Interface: People who manage the building use this to interact with the BEMS. It could be a website, a phone app, or computer software. These interfaces show what’s happening in real-time and let users control things even if they’re not in the building.

Main Benefits of Using a Building Energy Management System

Using a Building Energy Management System (BEMS) has significant advantages, especially heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which use up to 40% of a building’s energy.  

Experts say about a third of this energy is wasted because of problems like breakdowns, not working as well as they should, or controls not set up right.  

Here are the main benefits of having a BEMS:

Saving Energy and Money:

BEMS help use resources better, which means less energy is used up. They save money by stopping energy from being wasted. With real-time monitoring, adjustments can be made quickly to use power even better.  

Making Buildings More Functional:

BEMS keep things right in buildings, making them more comfy and helping people work better. They automatically adjust based on how many people are around and how the building is being used. 

They can predict when things might go wrong so repairs can be made before a major issue occurs.  

Diagnosing and Fixing Problems:

Usually, people walk around buildings checking for issues, but they might only catch some things. 

A good BEMS can accurately find issues and determine what’s causing them. It also gives suggestions on how to fix things, making repairs faster and easier.  

Environment Friendly:

When energy is used well, it means less pollution, which is good for the planet. BEMS support green efforts and can help buildings get certifications for being eco-friendly.  

Following Rules and Standards:

BEMS ensures that buildings meet energy saving rules and track energy use. It is essential to follow different standards. 

Building owners can save energy, improve their buildings, help the environment, and follow the rules by using a BEMS.  

Plus, they’re great at finding issues early, making building management easier. They can also show how well a building’s energy use compares to others. 

The Future of Building Energy Management Systems

Building Management Systems

Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) is changing fast, with new trends and tech making a significant impact on what’s to come: 

Using More Renewable Energy: In the future, BEMS will work more with renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, making buildings greener. 

Better Data Analysis: With improved sensors and connecting more devices, BEMS will give us even more info about how buildings use energy and how to save more. 

Predicting Problems: Thanks to AI and intelligent learning, BEMS will get better at figuring out when things might go wrong and fixing them before they do. 

Preferences: People who use buildings will expect them to use less energy and be more eco-friendly. Many people consider energy-saving features necessary when choosing a place to be. 

In short, Building Energy Management Systems have gone from simple to super smart, using AI to save energy and improve building performance.  

They help cut costs, make buildings perform well, and follow the rules. As technology improves, BEMS will become even more critical for managing energy and keeping buildings eco-friendly and efficient. 

We suggest building managers think about getting or upgrading their BEMS. It’s good for now and prepares buildings for the future.  

Contact Cyanergy for more energy-efficient products!   

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Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

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Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

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Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? 

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Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

  • In many Victorian households, the ducted
    gas heater
    is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.

  • The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
    options.

  • The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
    outdoor unit
    with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate
, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

  • One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

  • One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

  • One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

  • Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
    consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility
.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

  1. Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

  2. The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

  3. Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
    appliance.

  4. The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
    installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

  5. The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

  6. The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works
, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

  • The property must be more than two years old.
  • The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
  • The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
    provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

  1. The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
  2. They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
  3. The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

  • Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
  • Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save
between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

  • Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
  • In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
    and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
    course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.

  • In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
    October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.

  • Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

  • Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
  • During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
    decrease in heating electricity costs.
  • Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

  • In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
    $180.

  • So, the annual heating
    and cooling
    cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

  • Don’t wait until your system dies.
  • Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
    failing, you
    may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

  • Choose a provider who handles the rebates.
  • Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
    compliance, and
    installation. So look for an accredited provider.

  • Understand the actual savings potential.
  • It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
    heat and
    cool.

  • Ensure proper sizing and zone control.
  • As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
    units or
    whole-home heating can reduce savings.

  • Factor in non-energy benefits.
  • Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
    standing
    charges, less
    maintenance
    , and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

  • Check the accreditation and compliance.
  • With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
    through.

    So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
    documentation is completed appropriately.

  • Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
    costs.
  • This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
    rebate is
    not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

  • Monitor your bills after installation.
  • Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
    indicate
    whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

    Be realistic about pay-back

    Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
    or two
    years (unless you have extreme usage).

    However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
    possible,
    depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

  1. Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
  2. Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.

  3. Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
  4. A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

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The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?  appeared first on Cyanergy.

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Air Power

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About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air.  I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?”  End of conversation.

Now, it’s back.  Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity.  They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.

Air Power

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