We previously discussed “what to do” to improve the energy use performance of your facility. Now let’s talk about “how-tos” to improve performance.
By reducing the need for energy in your energy-consuming equipment and systems, you reduce the amount of energy your building requires to operate.
Replacement of energy inefficient equipment with equipment designed and aligned to your specific operating parameters ensures that you are operating in the most profitable and effective manner.
Upgrading of devices that control building operations ensures that equipment and systems are working better and only when necessary. For instance ….
An inexpensive control upgrade is the installation of lighting system occupancy sensors. Placing sensors in conference rooms, storage spaces, dining / break room areas, and public facilities ensures that lights are turned off when the space is not in use. By making lighting control an automatic action, you eliminate the need to “remember to turn off the lights” when leaving a space and ensure reduced energy consumption.
A second cost-effective solution involves the installation of variable frequency drives (VFDs) in pump and fan systems. Proper VFD installation can dramatically reduce energy use. With the addition of incentives and rebates for government sponsored energy projects, your upgrade cost is further reduced. An Energy Savings Opportunity Audit (ESOA) can quickly and easily determine if VFD technology is an “appropriate” solution for reducing overall energy use and operating costs in your building.
Beyond the strong financial benefits from reducing energy use and improving building operations, taking this step forward provides an opportunity to re-engage the facility and operations team in continual improvement. As we all know, great ideas for operational excellence come from men and women committed to improvement.