What is HEMS? A subsidy expert explains the mechanism and benefits of HEMS

Updated: July 2024, 6

Many people who are considering purchasing or renovating a home, or who are interested in saving energy and taking environmental measures, may have heard of the term "HEMS."
　
"HEMS" is a new technology that has been attracting attention in recent years.
In this article, we will explain what HEMS is, how it works, and how introducing a HEMS will change your life.
　
In addition, while introducing a HEMS requires a certain amount of initial investment, we will introduce the subsidies that can be used at that time from the perspective of not only home buyers, but also home sales companies and construction companies!

First of all, what is HEMS?

HEMS (Home Energy Management System) is a system for efficiently managing energy within the home and reducing waste.
By introducing this system, electricity consumption can be made visible and household energy consumption can be understood in real time.

As a result, you can expect to reduce wasted electricity and cut utility costs. Understanding HEMS is very important for anyone interested in energy management.

This content provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the specific benefits of introducing HEMS, how to use it, and points to be aware of.
We also provide detailed information on how to use the subsidy, so please read to the end.

How HEMS works

The basic role of HEMS is to:Real-time monitoring and visualization of home electricity usage.
Specifically, it works as follows:
　
First, sensors and smart meters are installed on home appliances and power meters to measure the power consumption of each device.
The measured data is sent to the HEMS controller via a communication network.
This allows for centralized management of energy usage within the home.
　
The collected data is then displayed in real time on the HEMS device or app, providing a visual overview of power usage throughout the home.
This gives you detailed insight into how much power each appliance is consuming.
　
In addition, HEMS analyzes historical data to identify wasteful energy usage and provide energy-saving advice.
For example, it can show trends in electricity consumption at specific times, and tell you which home appliances to use and when to use them to effectively save energy.
More advanced HEMS also have automated energy management capabilities, using communication protocols to automatically adjust the use of home appliances to avoid peaks in power consumption.
　　
With this HEMS system and functions,This will greatly improve the efficiency of energy management within the home, ultimately contributing greatly to reducing electricity bills and realizing an eco-friendly lifestyle.
In addition, by optimizing energy consumption, it is expected to contribute to environmental protection.

Benefits of Introducing HEMS

Due to these characteristics, HEMS has become an important topic in the housing industry.
From here, we will explain in more detail the benefits of introducing a HEMS.

1. It becomes easier to take action to save electricity

By introducing a HEMS, you can make energy consumption visible.
This means that you will be able to see graphs and figures showing how much energy is being consumed in your home in real time via an app on your smartphone or tablet.
　
This allows users to see at a glance how much energy each electrical device is using at any given time, enabling them to take efficient energy-saving measures, such as avoiding using electrical devices during times when power consumption is high.

Ultimately, it is important not to leave energy saving entirely to the HEMS, but to take proactive action based on the data obtained through visualization, and it can be a powerful ally as a support tool for saving energy.

②Power generation, storage, and saving can be managed centrally

HEMS can do much more than just monitor energy consumption.
By linking it with solar power generation and storage batteries, it also enables efficient use of electricity generated at home.
　
Specifically, electricity generated by solar panels during the day can be stored in a storage battery and used at night.
This allows you to reduce power consumption during peak hours and save on your electricity bills.
Centralized management makes it easier to grasp the overall picture from power generation to consumption, enabling more efficient energy use.

3) Automatic control and remote operation are possible

It can also be linked to a smart home for automatic control and remote operation.
By installing sensors in each room of the house, you can have the lights and air conditioning automatically turn off when no one is in the room.

For example, if it determines that no one is in the living room, it can reduce electricity consumption without any manual intervention.
Furthermore, by using the timer function, you can schedule electrical devices to be turned on and off automatically at specific times.
This allows for efficient optimization of energy consumption.
This will result in greater energy savings and ultimately reduced electricity bills for your home.

④ Demand response is possible

Demand response is a mechanism for voluntarily reducing electricity consumption when demand for electricity increases, stabilizing the overall power supply.
This system can be realized by introducing HEMS.

Specifically, HEMS optimizes electricity usage within the home by automatically limiting the use of high-energy devices during peak hours of electricity consumption and adjusting the temperature settings of air conditioners.
For example, you could avoid using your washing machine or dishwasher during times when electricity rates are high, and limit your electricity consumption to the bare minimum.
　
In this way, efficient management of household electricity usage contributes to a stable supply of electricity and can also help reduce electricity bills.

⑤ It will be a disaster prevention measure.

Japan is a country that experiences many natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.
Therefore, introducing a HEMS as a disaster prevention measure is extremely beneficial.

First, by introducing a HEMS, you can combine a solar power generation system with a storage battery during a power outage.
Even during a power outage, the electricity stored in the battery can be used to power necessary equipment such as refrigerators, lighting, and communication devices.

In addition, HEMS can monitor the energy supply status in real time, quickly detect abnormalities, and take appropriate measures.
This allows for flexible response to unexpected situations, making it extremely effective as a disaster prevention measure.

Flow from HEMS introduction to utilization

Through these benefits, HEMS has the potential to completely change your life.
However, few people understand the steps involved from introduction to effective use.
So, from here on, we will explain in detail the process from introducing HEMS to using it.

1. Install HEMS-compatible home appliances and equipment

In order to utilize HEMS, you must first install home appliances and housing equipment that are compatible with HEMS.
This includes energy-efficient LED lighting and smart appliances that can connect to the internet.
These facilities can be linked to a HEMS controller to monitor and manage energy consumption in real time.

In particular, the introduction of solar power generation systems and eco-cute water heaters will promote the use of renewable energy.
Also, when introducing a HEMS, it is important to check the compatibility of compatible devices.
It is necessary to check in advance, as there may be cases where devices from different manufacturers do not work together smoothly.

②Install and configure the HEMS controller

Next, we install and configure the HEMS controller, which is the central part of the HEMS.
This controller works in conjunction with various devices in the home to collect and manage energy consumption data.
It should be installed in a central location in the house with easy access to the Internet.

An internet connection is required to manage all data in real time.
During setup, you'll need to carefully pair devices and configure network settings to ensure data is collected properly.
In particular, we recommend that you make sure you have a good Wi-Fi connection and place the controller in a location free of obstructions.
It is also important to perform the initial setup correctly by following the HEMS controller's instruction manual.

After completing the setup, check the data collection status regularly and take immediate action if there is an abnormality.

3) Understand power consumption

Once the HEMS controller is set up correctly, it will display the power consumption of the entire home in real time.
Using a dedicated monitor or smartphone app, you can see at a glance how much power each device is consuming.
Based on this data, wasteful power consumption can be identified, enabling more efficient energy usage.
You can also compare the data with past data to see the energy savings.
Furthermore, specific points to be careful about when managing energy include incorrect device settings and forgetting to collect data.
To prevent this, it is important to regularly check and review your settings.

④ Start taking concrete action to save money

Once you have determined your power consumption, you can begin to take specific actions to conserve energy.

For example, it is effective to avoid using home appliances during times when electricity consumption is high.
This helps reduce power usage during peak times.

Additionally, it is recommended to use smart plugs to reduce standby power.
By utilizing the functions of a smart plug, it is possible to minimize power consumption when not in use.

Furthermore, if you have a solar power generation system, it is important to incorporate optimal operation methods according to the weather.
For example, one option is to make the most of solar power generation on sunny days and efficiently use battery storage on cloudy days.

It is also very important for all family members to share the awareness of saving energy.
If each individual has knowledge about saving energy and makes improvements to their daily actions, the energy conservation effect of the entire household can be improved.

Points to note when installing HEMS

The introduction of a HEMS can bring great benefits to a home, but advance preparation is important to maximize its benefits.
Here we will explain the points you should check before installing a HEMS.

1. Estimation of implementation costs

The initial costs of introducing a HEMS vary depending on the size and functionality of the system.
Generally, introducing a HEMS involves costs such as purchasing the system itself, installation costs, and costs for sensors and related devices such as smart meters.

It is important to get a specific quote up front and have a clear understanding of the total cost.
If you have any questions at the quotation stage, we recommend that you make sure to check and proceed with the implementation only after you are satisfied.

Additionally, subsidies may be available, so this is something not to be overlooked.
If your local government has a subsidy program, you can take advantage of this to significantly reduce your implementation costs.

2. Requires setup and regular maintenance

Even after installing a HEMS, initial setup and regular maintenance are essential.

First,Link settings between devices is required.
This allows all energy-related devices in the home to work together efficiently.

next,Software updateIs required.
Maintaining the latest version of your software helps improve the security and performance of your system.

In addition, Check and tune performanceshould also be done regularly.
By optimizing energy consumption conditions and settings within the home, it is possible to maximize the effectiveness of the HEMS.

By performing these regular checks and updates, you can maximize the performance of your HEMS equipment.
If maintenance is insufficient, the risk of system deterioration and failure increases, so it is important to respond carefully.

3) Security measures are also necessary

Since HEMS is connected to the Internet, there are security risks involved.
Considering the possibility of cyber attacks on home networks, it is important to implement the following security measures.

First,Setting strong passwordsis basic.
Avoid simple passwords and use long passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols.

next,Using a firewallis also valid.
This helps prevent unauthorized access and keeps your network safe.

Furthermore, Regular security updatesDon't forget to do this.
Staying up to date helps you stay on top of new threats.

In addition to the security measures you can take yourself,Utilize support and resources provided by HEMS manufacturersrecommend to.
It is important to regularly check for security patches and updates from manufacturers and apply them appropriately.

④It is not enough to leave everything to HEMS

HEMS is a powerful tool for making energy management more efficient.
However, simply implementing it will not achieve maximum benefits.
It is important for residents themselves to proactively review their energy consumption and raise awareness of saving energy.

First,Analyze consumption data provided by HEMS and introduce efficient usage patternsIs required.
For example, you could find ways to avoid using electrical appliances during times when energy consumption is high.

next,Switch to the latest energy-efficient appliances that use less energyThis is also one way to go.
This will result in significant cost savings in the long term.

In addition, Daily energy saving habitsis also essential.
It may seem like a simple thing, but concrete actions such as turning off the lights in rooms that are not in use and unplugging appliances to reduce standby power consumption can add up to significant energy savings in the long run.

Take advantage of subsidies to introduce HEMS at a great price!

HEMS is very attractive to people who are interested in energy conservation and the environment.
However, the initial implementation costs can be a barrier.

there,Utilization of subsidiesbecomes important.
By taking advantage of subsidies, it is possible to reduce the high implementation costs and maximize the benefits of HEMS.
Some local governments offer subsidies for the introduction of HEMS, so we recommend that you check in advance whether you meet the requirements.

Housing sales companies and construction companies also have the opportunity to take advantage of HEMS subsidies!

Subsidies should be effectively utilized not only by those installing HEMS, but also by those having their systems installed, i.e. home sales companies and construction companies.
　
This is because subsidies are an effective means of cutting the actual selling price.
By covering part of the costs required for the purchaser to introduce the system with subsidies,Offering competitive prices to customers,This will lead to sales promotion.

In addition to HEMS, we also provide application support for solar power generation systems, storage batteries, ENE-FARM, etc.
Applicants who wish to utilize the subsidy will request a construction company to carry out the work, and the construction company will then submit an application to our company.
Therefore, customers can use subsidies as a sales tool to make proposals to applicants (orderers).

We will help you promote sales through subsidies and reduce the burden of applications.

Summary | Use HEMS to live a life that is kind to the earth and your wallet

In this article, we have provided detailed explanations about the benefits of introducing a HEMS, how to use it specifically, things to be aware of when introducing it, and how to utilize subsidies.

By introducing a HEMS, energy consumption can be visualized and unnecessary energy use can be reduced.
In addition to reducing the burden on household finances, it also reduces the burden on the global environment.

Please start managing your home energy and realize a lifestyle that is kind to the earth!