Commercial Controls & Automation Energy Efficiency Industrial Residential
Schneider Electric, Panasonic partner for wireless BMS/HVAC interface 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 of their core building systems including power and electrical distribution, HVAC equipment, lighting and security anytime and anywhere.

“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,” said Laurent Bataille, executive vice-president of the EcoBuilding division, Schneider Electric. “This strong digital backbone provides enhanced visibility of the building environment and is a key component in enabling buildings of the future.”

The joint Schneider Electric/Panasonic solution can be installed wirelessly—which preserves existing infrastructure and is ideal for retrofits of older buildings, the companies note—or it can be wired.

Schneider Electric’s SmartStruxure building management solution maximizes building efficiency and reduces operating costs across the entire lifecycle of a facility by integrating customized hardware, software, engineering, installation and services. Additionally, Schneider Electric’s SE8000 series room controllers, as part of SmartStruxure, combine a thermostat/temperature sensor and programmable room controller in one unit.

Meanwhile, Panasonic’s VRF system (ECOi/FSV) is designed to increase energy efficiency by delivering “the highest ESEER rating in all outdoor capacities”, as well as high-efficiency for part-load operations that match the environment in which it is being used.