EnOcean can use 'wasted' energy to its advantage
EnOcean technology is designed to take advantage of energy that would otherwise be wasted in normal building operation. Instead of relying on batteries or wired power, EnOcean devices can harvest small amounts of ambient energy generated by everyday environmental conditions and user interaction.
This approach enables wireless sensors and controls to operate with minimal maintenance, making EnOcean particularly well suited for building automation applications where wiring and battery replacement are costly or impractical.
Using Wasted Energy
EnOcean devices are able to extract usable energy from sources that are commonly present in buildings. These sources are not created specifically to power the device, but instead are byproducts of normal operation, such as motion, light, or temperature differences.
By capturing and storing very small amounts of this energy, EnOcean devices can transmit sensor data or control signals wirelessly without the need for external power supplies.
Benefits of EnOcean Technology
By eliminating the need for batteries and reducing wiring requirements, EnOcean technology offers practical benefits for building owners, integrators, and maintenance teams. Devices can be installed more quickly and with less disruption to existing infrastructure.
The ability to operate without batteries also reduces long-term maintenance costs and improves sustainability by minimizing waste and service visits over the life of the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “wasted energy” mean in EnOcean systems?
Wasted energy refers to small amounts of energy that are naturally produced by motion,
light, or temperature changes in a building and would normally go unused.
Does EnOcean require batteries?
No. EnOcean devices are designed to operate without batteries by harvesting ambient energy.
Why is energy harvesting useful in building automation?
Energy harvesting reduces wiring and maintenance requirements, making wireless sensors
easier to deploy and maintain over long periods of time.
Is EnOcean suitable for retrofit projects?
Yes. Because EnOcean devices do not require power wiring or battery replacement, they are
commonly used in retrofit and renovation projects.