Energy Management Systems (EMS) Controls is responsible for overseeing most campus control systems. EMS is divided into three shops: Systems & Controls (S&C), Temperature Control, and the Direct Digital Control (DDC) shop. The department is responsible for installing, updating, and maintaining numerous electrical and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems on campus, including:

• Electrical lines and meters
• Fire-alarm system
• Emergency generators
• Signal cable
• Traffic signals

Systems & Controls is responsible for programming and maintaining the DDC systems across campus. In order to monitor these systems and assess any problems, S&C utilizes the recently constructed Energy Management Control Center (EMCC).

S&C also performs preventative maintenance on the building’s automated and HVAC systems. This initiative was implemented in 2014. This will allow EMS the capability of regularly performing scheduled work on most buildings on a 12- to 18-month basis. Systems & Controls, as well as the DDC electricians, also maintains the Andover Card Access system, used by many buildings on campus.

Temperature Control mechanics work to maintain comfort levels in campus buildings. They are skilled in troubleshooting, reparation, installation, and calibration of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and their controls, as well as air compressors.

Building automation systems are operated and maintained by the electricians of the DDC shop. These electricians perform installation, maintenance, and repair of these and other control systems.

Occupancy scheduling is an important aspect of maintenance for EMS Controls. A major advantage to incorporating the campus’ buildings into the DDC system is the ability of EMS Controls to work with building facilitators to create an occupancy/shutdown schedule. When a building’s HVAC system is part of the DDC system, knowing the building schedule allows EMS to appropriately schedule mechanical systems to run only during periods of building activity.

EMS has also begun utilizing occupancy sensors on variable air volume (VAV) air handlers for classrooms and offices. This allows EMS to achieve additional savings during normal day hours, where the unit would be running, by closing off air dampers – or air flow – to specific spaces that do not have occupants. Once the space becomes occupied EMS can then place the room controller back in normal operation.

Energy Management Control Center (EMCC)

The Energy Management Control Center (EMCC) is at the heart of the Illinois energy-management data enterprise. The EMCC brings all control systems into one area, integrating demand, purchase, and production with enhanced monitoring and automation capabilities. The EMCC ensures UES will continue providing reliable energy for the university by keeping technical systems operating efficiently.

For questions about hot/cold issues contact the EMCC at fandsenergycomm@illinois.edu, 217-244-3783.

Request all services through the my.FS Portal. For additional information or assistance, contact the Service Office at 217-333-0340.