Energy Optimization aligns systems with established energy goals and strategies. Because building and energy management systems’ performance deteriorates over time; periodic optimizations are highly recommended. The typical culprits in system degradation are overrides, set-point and alarm delay changes, and equipment or equipment use changes. An energy optimization helps protect your investment and enhances equipment performance.
Energy tune-ups, (optimizations), begin with an on-site energy audit. Our optimization experts gather real-time energy consumption and performance data on all building systems. We perform functional tests. A systematic review of alarm set-points and delays identifies critical issues. Our team confirms compressor sizing and naming, system mapping, sensor calibration, and control sequences. We identify and resolve simple deferred maintenance issues and meet with you to confirm your operational requirements. Spending time talking with staff and determining the goals for the project are essential aspects.
Using a variety of tools we identify problems and their root causes. Upon completion of the audit, we present solutions and opportunities for improved efficiency. Corrective actions may include making mechanical repairs, adjustments, optimizing programming, and implementing energy conservation strategies. Examples of common strategies include floating head and suction pressure control, demand controlled ventilation or lighting setback controls. The best and most appropriate strategies depend on the specific findings. In some instances, it may not be in your best financial interest to invest in new strategies due to the remaining useful life of the equipment. If we run into this situation, we will help you determine a short- and long-term plan to address the equipment needs in addition to optimizing your energy savings.
Whether you are new to energy management or a seasoned expert, our goal is to find the best alternatives for you and your budget. Our optimization team will help you determine a budget and project the return on investment for the selected options. We explore rebates and incentives on your behalf and can assist with equipment specification and procurement. Several programs offer financing options to help fund energy efficiency projects.
The average time for a return on investment for controls related measures is 3 months to 2 years with average annual energy savings between 9 and 15%. Organizations may recognize more significant savings when combining equipment upgrades with optimization strategies.
To learn more about energy optimizations and the R3RD approach, read our recent blog post, Energy Tune-Up Road Map. As a best practice, an energy optimization should be performed at a minimum of every three years to maintain the initial efficiencies and sustain energy savings. More complex or sophisticated building and system designs may warrant more frequent tune-ups. Other indicators that it is time for an energy optimization include knowledge of set-point changes, alarm over-rides, adding or replacing equipment or changes in operational hours or service vendors.