Why ‘How’ Offers More Insight Than ‘How Much’

Welcome, Net Zero News readers! Today, we delve into a transformative approach to energy and water management within student accommodation that not only benefits property owners but also empowers young residents to become responsible resource users.

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, metering electricity and water in student housing serves as a crucial step towards encouraging mindful consumption. At the heart of this initiative lies the ability to charge residents directly for their usage, thereby fostering an awareness of their resource consumption habits. When students are informed about their energy and water use, they can make more conscious decisions, ultimately preparing them for a sustainable future in independent living.

One of the standout features of modern energy management systems is their capacity to engage with all residents. Unlike mobile applications that depend on user compliance for data collection, a comprehensive building energy management system can reach 100% of occupants. This ensures that no student is left uninformed about their consumption, creating a collective culture of responsibility and awareness.

The implications of metering extend beyond mere billing. When students understand the resources they consume, they are more likely to take ownership of their usage. This heightened consciousness can lead to significant cost savings and a deeper appreciation of the value of utilities. In many student properties, utilities are bundled into the rent, which can inadvertently promote wasteful behaviours. If students perceive electricity and water as ‘free,’ the incentive to conserve diminishes. By directly linking usage to cost, residents become more mindful of their actions, paving the way for a more sustainable lifestyle.

As we face escalating environmental challenges, the shift towards sustainable practices is more critical than ever. Metering can contribute to substantial reductions in resource consumption, guiding society towards a future where energy and water conservation are embedded in daily life. When students learn the importance of conserving resources, they carry these lessons into their future endeavours, creating a more eco-conscious generation.

To amplify the impact of metering, property managers are increasingly adopting communication strategies that promote behavioural change. By providing occupants with insights into their consumption patterns, alongside comparisons to their peers, students are motivated to alter their behaviours—turning off lights, reducing shower times, and dressing appropriately for the season. When individuals are enlightened about their resource usage, they are more likely to develop habits that minimise waste, benefitting both the environment and their wallets.

For property owners, the advantages of metering extend to operational management as well. By relying on actual usage data rather than estimates, landlords can more effectively manage costs associated with utilities. The ability to analyse consumption patterns enhances the accuracy of demand forecasts, enabling property owners to make informed decisions during procurement processes. This data-driven approach not only streamlines operations but also contributes to a more sustainable business model.

Recently, Prefect Irus has introduced three innovative features that enhance the effectiveness of metering in student accommodation:

• Modbus connected energy and water meters: These devices provide real-time data on consumption at various levels—block, floor, flat, or room—allowing for granular analysis of resource use.
• The Irus Optimiser software tool: This cutting-edge tool automatically analyses data to identify high consumers, assess heating profiles, and highlight occupancy levels. It can even flag rooms that may be using supplementary heaters, offering actionable recommendations for optimising energy performance.
• ControlSensor technology: Installed in every bedroom, kitchen, and communal area, this feature facilitates direct communication with residents, informing them of their resource usage and providing tips for becoming more resource-efficient.

By adopting a dual approach to energy conservation—metering and control—property managers can identify inefficiencies and take corrective action. This ensures that operators have complete visibility over utility use, enabling them to respond proactively to any issues that arise.

Understanding not just how much energy is consumed, but also how it is used, is vital for addressing efficiency challenges. This nuanced understanding allows property managers to implement targeted strategies for improvement, making the most of their resources.

Utilising a unified infrastructure for both metering and control proves to be cost-effective, streamlining capital investment and installation processes. This all-in-one platform simplifies energy management, making it accessible and straightforward for property owners and residents alike.

For environmentally conscious students who prioritise sustainability, metered utilities add significant appeal to accommodation options. Many students are increasingly aware of climate change and the environmental impact of their choices. Consequently, they are more likely to seek out properties that enable them to monitor and manage their consumption effectively. Student housing that actively promotes energy efficiency and responsible consumption is not only attractive to tenants but also aligns with their values, creating a community of like-minded individuals committed to sustainability.

In conclusion, the integration of metering technology in student accommodation not only paves the way for a more sustainable future but also fosters a culture of responsibility among young residents. As we continue to face pressing environmental issues, initiatives that encourage energy and water conservation are essential in shaping a generation that values and respects our planet’s resources. Through innovative solutions like those offered by Prefect Irus, we can empower students to take charge of their consumption, ultimately leading to a more eco-conscious society.

For more information about how metering can transform energy management in student housing, visit www.prefectcontrols.com.

This article first appeared in the April 2025 issue of Energy Manager magazine. For more insightful articles and updates, subscribe here.

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