RCx Pivots Building Toward Energy Conservation Measures

1. Perform a Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) with a specific focus on ECMs

The first step in the process was to perform a detailed FCA of the facility. The assessment allowed Synergy to gain a deeper understanding of all the assets in the facility, what their existing operating conditions were, and what their potential operating conditions could be.

2. Review the Building Automation System (BAS) data and trend history

Once the FCA was completed and all necessary asset data was documented, a deeper dive into the Building Automation System (BAS) historical trend data was performed. The trend analysis revealed many ECM opportunities, but this particular RCx Incentive Project was only focused on the low cost/no cost opportunities, which primarily focused on control modifications like equipment setbacks, revised scheduling, and aggressive reset strategies.  Synergy was also able to provide the Client with a list of potential ECM opportunities that would require a larger capital investment, so they could determine which additional energy projects could be performed at a later date outside the boundaries of this RCx project.

3. Provide Actionable Recommendations

Synergy’s engineers utilized data analytics to target viable energy efficiency improvements within the buildings. For example, after analyzing the Client’s BAS trend data, it was discovered that a failing heating hot water temperature sensor was providing erratic and inaccurate feedback values to the control system, which was preventing the Heating Hot Water System from functioning correctly according to its Sequence of Operation (SOO). Replacing this failed sensor would allow the system to operate correctly and efficiently moving forward.

4. Quantify Potential Savings

In order to validate the potential ECM savings, Synergy’s team gathered historical weather data, along with the BAS trend data, to extrapolate projected savings for a year. These numbers were based on determined space temperature setpoints and schedules that would optimize building performance while maintaining occupant comfort and safety. In analyzing the trend data, Synergy developed a variety of strategies for implementing change that would result in persistent energy savings, including more efficient fan operation, reduced pumping requirements, aggressive system resets, etc).

5. Deliver an Implementation Plan

After compiling and reviewing the ECM options, the top measures were summarized and presented to the Client in the Implementation Plan. This plan includes a Return on Investment (ROI) summary so the Client is able to focus on the most cost-effective solutions first. Synergy also provided some general system recommendations and best practices for proactive operational maintenance. As an example, the Client had flow sensors that had not been cleaned or calibrated in over ten years which was resulting in inaccurate system feedback data. Consistent and proactive calibration and maintenance can be a quick and cost-effective way to reduce energy waste.

Owner Success

In order for the Client to qualify and benefit from the energy efficiency incentives offered through RCx program, Consumers required the client to verify the completion of the suggested ECMs. This verification incentivizes the client to get to the finish line of their energy reduction efforts and prove their results to the energy provider. In compiling the large amounts of data, Synergy provided the client with actionable information that helped them turn an energy-inefficient facility into an energy-conserving and operational success while delivering the RCx blueprint that can be applied to all their other facilities.

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