Monday, May 7, 2012

Building Energy Management Systems: A Growth Industry


Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) and the associated industries are set for YoY growth of over 15% through 2020, according industry consultants, Pike Research.  The usual suspects are of course talking up these business segments in their 10-K's as being a major part of growth opportunities: Siemens, Johnson Controls, G.E. I.B.M., as well as countless startups are drooling over this forward-thinking energy industry.  The U.S. commercial building stock provides almost endless room to target existing structures, all of which often see incredible energy savings and payback periods. 

I enjoy watching this industry for several reasons, but primarily because it exemplifies the work required of an efficient and progressive economy, which I'm an ardent supporter of.  A multitude of professionals must come together for a building to become active or alive: one that adapts its systems real-time.  Pipe-fitters must work alongside technologists, engineers with facility managers, or programmers with office clerks.  BEMS design is clearly a stakeholder responsive industry, which requires tight integration of many disciplines.  Firms in this field often tout their vast network of professionals from across industry as a selling point to clients.  One of many reasons I'm motivated to become part of this industry as a business professional. 

A Final Dash of Salt…
What's additionally fascinating about this industry is it's only recent growth due to several technology advancements: network technologies, wireless communications, and micro computing power.  I believe these three tech trends are some of the most powerful societal advancements solidified in the past decade and may sit next to antibiotics, steel, and modern sanitation as critical, historical advancements and paradigm-makers.

IBM's bet on the industry:

SIEMENS recent 10-Q:

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