Energy Efficiency

ENERGY AUDITS

ASHRAE Level I Energy Audit

A prerequisite for LEED-EB 2009 Certification, the ASHRAE Level I Energy Audit includes a visual inspection of the building’s mechanical and electrical systems, along with building operating personnel interviews, and utility bill analysis to gain an understanding of the operating and maintenance procedures of the building. A final report is generated to identify the building’s performance relative to its peers as well as any potential energy improvements. A cost analysis is not required but may be performed.

ASHRAE Level II Energy Audit

The ASHRAE Level II Energy Audit includes a more-detailed building survey than the Level I, and expands on the walk-through analysis by conducting in-field measurements. An energy savings and cost analysis is performed, and the final report consists of a detailed cost analysis for low- and no-cost measures, modifications in building systems or operations, and potential upgrades. The report also discusses a number of energy conservation measures (ECMs) to be taken in order to increase the building’s energy efficiency.

ASHRAE Level III Energy Audit

The ASHRAE Level III Energy Audit, also called an “investment grade audit,” includes a complex analysis of energy conservation measures (ECMs) affecting large capital investments. The report focuses on one or two large capital ECMs by looking at all influencing factors. It is typical for a Level III audit to include a whole building computer simulation to model the building performance. Data loggers are used to collect data and are used to calibrate the building simulation. An energy savings and cost analysis is performed, and the final report consists of a detailed cost analysis only for the one or two capital intensive improvements. The report also indicates the measurement and verification (M&V) required for each capital improvement.

RETRO-COMMISSIONING

Retro-commissioning is a systematic investigation process for improving the performance of an existing building’s mechanical systems by identifying and implementing operational and maintenance improvements.  Improvements are intended to ensure that the building is operating optimally for its current occupancy and usage.  The use profiles of most existing buildings have changed since the buildings were built, and as a result, most mechanical equipment that serves the buildings must be tuned to accommodate these changes.

The primary focus of CodeGreen’s Retro-commissioning effort is to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy and demand costs, bring equipment to its original operational state, improve indoor environmental quality, and to put in place proper operation and maintenance procedures to maintain optimal performance.

CodeGreen’s Retro-Commissioning analysis includes the following building systems:

HVAC System:

• Building Management System (BMS)
• Air handling systems
• Refrigeration Plant, chilled water and condenser water systems
• Heating system
• Steam distribution and condensate systems
• Pumps
• Cooling Towers
• Variable frequency drives
• Heat exchangers
• Fans
• Lighting, Controls and Electrical Systems
• Plumbing Systems
• Building Envelope
• Elevator and Vertical Transportation Systems