Schneider Electric and Panasonic partner to simplify energy management

Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management and automation, and Panasonic Corporation recently announced an integrated HVAC equipment and building management solution. Both companies have developed an interface wireless solution, which enables direct serial communication between Schneider Electric’s building management system and room controllers with Panasonic’s variable refrigerant flow (VRF)-based HVAC systems via the ZigBee wireless communication standard.

This integration allows building owners and managers to view all core building systems including HVAC equipment, lighting, security, power and electrical distribution anytime and anywhere via a single interface. According to the companies, it also delivers actionable insights to reduce energy consumption and drive savings.

“Creating interoperability between major energy consuming systems such as HVAC equipment with building control systems allows facility managers to simplify their operations, better optimize the efficiency of their buildings and reduce energy costs,” said Laurent Bataille, executive vice president, EcoBuilding Division, Schneider Electric. “By partnering with Panasonic, we’re able to provide complete building management from the device level to the cloud, regardless of building type, size or age.”

The joint Schneider Electric/Panasonic solution can be installed wirelessly and takes advantage of plug-and-play technology, which simplifies system configurations for extensive VRF systems. “By combining the power of building management with cutting-edge VRF technology, we are able to help our customers further reduce capital and operating expenditures and reach new levels of sustainability,” said Toshiyuki Takagi, executive officer of Panasonic Corporation and president of Panasonic Air-Conditioner.