Smart Energy Management at Chotěbořské strojírny with FLOWBOX
Chotěbořské strojírny improved energy efficiency and control by implementing the FLOWBOX system, enabling real-time monitoring, smart energy source management, and integration with the ČEZ Distribuce dispatcher.
About the Company
Chotěbořské strojírny, a.s. is a traditional Czech manufacturer of technological equipment for the food and energy industries. The company also specializes in the production of injection molds, plastic molding, and custom engineering. It places long-term emphasis on energy efficiency and modern management of operational processes, including both energy production and consumption.
Important Numbers
- 230 employees
- 1,376 data points monitored
- 1.5 GWh/year - own electricity generation (CHP + PV)
- ~6.40 GWh/year - natural gas consumption
Project Objectives
The aim was to enable real-time monitoring of electricity and gas consumption from suppliers and to integrate in-house power and heat generation into one system. FLOWBOX also collects data from water, heat, and compressed air meters. In 2024, it was extended to connect with the dispatcher control system of ČEZ Distribuce.
Key Benefits
- Centralized overview of all energy flows
- Optimized operations and energy use
- Connection to ČEZ dispatcher system and reporting to Grid Operator
- Active control of energy sources
FLOWBOX in action at Chotěbořské strojírny - how does it help?
- Comprehensive consumption monitoring
FLOWBOX measures electricity, gas, water, and compressed air consumption from over 1,300 data points. - Dispatcher control for ČEZ Distribution
In 2024, the system was extended to connect with the dispatcher control system, meeting the distributor’s regulatory requirements. - DSO monitoring and reporting
FLOWBOX manages all data from the local distribution system and provides automated reporting to the grid operator - Photovoltaic power plant control
FLOWBOX monitors PV production and ensures its smooth integration into the site's overall energy management. - Cogeneration unit control
The system manages the CHP unit during the winter months, optimizing the use of both generated heat and electricity. - Diesel generator control
The system monitors the status of the backup diesel unit, keeping it ready for emergency situations. - Natural gas consumption forecasting
FLOWBOX continuously estimates daily gas consumption, allowing the company to adjust operations in time and avoid exceeding contractual limits. - Scalability and future expansion
Thanks to its flexibility, the system allows for easy integration of additional measurements, features, or new technologies as operational needs evolve.
What do they say about FLOWBOX at Chotěbořské strojírny
“After three years of experience, we evaluate our cooperation with FLOWBOX very positively. The technical solution meets our requirements. Thanks to the system’s flexibility and the supplier’s responsive approach, we are expanding its use to support the evolving needs of our company.”
Pavel Sedlák, Head of Energy Management, Chotěbořské strojírny, a.s.
