I spend a lot of time with building engineers deciphering what’s happening in their VAV systems. Unfortunately, it’s often not what the design engineer intended, or what the controls company envisioned when they set up the system. When identifying problems with building control systems, it’s...
Energy benchmarking is often the first step in a new energy efficiency program or sustainable design project. Benchmarking helps us to prioritize and focus attention; it also provides useful metrics for target-setting or gauging progress. Lab buildings need benchmarking more than most. At first glance, the...
All the warning signs of burnout were there. It took time to process, but last year I realized my life needed shaking up. I needed a break from work. I noticed that since starting our company almost 20 years ago, my energy was starting to wane....
Commissioning has been around since the 1980’s, but has gained prominence with the requirements in LEED, energy codes, and even federal requirements. As the industry has evolved, so has the title for the people that do it. There are currently three titles: Commissioning Agent (CxA),...
California’s SB 350, passed in 2015, garnered widespread attention for the state’s leadership in advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency. The bill set a goal for “doubling” energy efficiency in the state by 2030. But what does it mean to “double energy efficiency” by 2030,...
I recently held a session on Best Practices for Lighting Audits at PG&E’s Pacific Energy Center and someone asked me something which truly intrigued me about cheese (?!) and lighting. I love sharing my experiences in these classes and picking up tips and tricks from...
California utilities are now allowed to define the new rate periods for on-peak thanks to a recent CPUC ruling. For many, the CPUC’s actions have been distant. However, this ruling has the potential to impact your bottom line. But have hope – you can mitigate...
With increased incentives and falling battery costs, commercial customers are asking us whether battery energy storage systems (BESS) are right for them. Before we can answer that question, we need to do our homework on your building’s current energy use. That includes considering your current...
I’m very happy to announce that we’ve made another big step forward towards our goal – an enforceable standard for energy audits. Back in December I wrote about the first version of the ASHRAE’s Standard 211P, and my vision for how this could help create...
There are big changes proposed in the latest rulemaking provided by the CPUC on California’s rolling portfolio. If these ideas move forward it’ll be time to hold on to your saddle for sure. Since it’s still bike to work month, I’m thinking a classic Brooks B-17....