Applying Analytics in the Denver Colorado Xcel Energy District Energy System - Case Study

Overview
Xcel Energy owns and operates a district energy system in downtown Denver offering steam heating and chilled water cooling to a variety of large customers. To improve the operation and management of this system, Xcel Energy has deployed analytics software using near real time data from the entire system including steam heat exchangers, chilled water heat exchangers, and five central chilled water plants.

For the customer’s heat exchangers, the analytics software has been customized to compile energy data for monthly billing and analysis of operation. Programmed rules help identify anomalies and issues such as communication loss, unexpected readings, steam leaks or excess energy compared to predicted use. Dashboards also help visualize energy consumption and identify trends over time. These automated processes reduce the time required for monthly billing and help to correct system issues quickly.