Panasonic Corp. and Schneider Electric have announced they are partnering to provide an integrated HVAC equipment and building management solution that brings new levels of HVAC control and energy efficiency to today’s commercial buildings. Both companies have developed new wireless interface solutions that enable 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 HVAC equipment, lighting, security, power, and electrical distribution, anytime and anywhere via a single interface. Additional benefits include the ability to deliver actionable insights to reduce energy consumption and drive savings. The joint Panasonic/Schneider Electric solution can be installed wirelessly, which preserves existing infrastructure and is suitable for retrofits of older buildings, or it can be wired.

(Source: ACHR News, 5 December 2016)