Carbonetix Carbon Real-Time energy monitoring system

Carbon Real-Time is a low-cost electricity usage monitor which is used to identify energy waste.

The system uses clip-on current-transformers connected to a wireless transmitter. Multiple units can be deployed within 20 m of the receiver. The receiving unit then posts information to an in-built web server, which can be accessed via the local intranet or posted to the internet. Connection is via ethernet port or optionally, a plug-in wireless access point, making installation easy.

Each current transformer can measure up to 100 A, and the system can measure either single- or three-phase power. This gives it a capability of measuring single-phase loads of up to 24 kW and three-phase loads of up to 72 kW. It is therefore a useful tool for monitoring the electricity usage of lighting circuits, air conditioners, etc.

As the system measures current only, and not voltage, it does not report on true power, and cannot be used for check metering purposes, but nonetheless is a valuable tool for identifying trends in electricity usage and identifying waste. For example, the system can be used to identify the start or stop times of air conditioners, lights and other loads. By posting the data real time - and with the option of setting up alerts - wasted energy can be easily identified and immediate cost savings made.

Energy audits typically identify wastage of 5 to 10% due to operation of equipment at times when it is not needed. For sites spending $20,000 or more annually on electricity, the ROI on eliminating wasted energy identified from an investment in the system is usually around one year.