Retro-commissioning is the process of optimizing a building’s systems to ensure it operates at peak performance. It’s a proactive approach to address issues that arise over time due to factors like aging equipment or changes in how building occupants use the space. Regular retro-commissioning should be integrated into a long-term operations and maintenance strategy.
During retro-commissioning, an energy specialist identifies inefficiencies in equipment operation, systems needing replacement or adjustment, and potential operational improvements. The specialist then creates a list of recommended energy-saving measures, prioritizing easy and cost-effective solutions for immediate implementation.
The Core Principles of Retro-Commissioning
Retro-commissioning operates on a few core principles:
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation of existing building systems to identify areas for improvement. This often involves reviewing building plans, interviewing staff, and conducting site inspections.
- Analysis: Analyzing the data collected during the assessment to determine the root causes of inefficiencies.
- Implementation: Implementing the recommended energy-saving measures. This could involve anything from adjusting thermostat settings to replacing outdated equipment.
- Verification: Verifying that the implemented measures are actually saving energy. This is typically done by monitoring energy consumption before and after the retro-commissioning process.
- Continuous Improvement: Viewing retro-commissioning as an ongoing process, not a one-time event. This involves regularly monitoring building performance and making adjustments as needed.
Benefits of Retro-Commissioning
Retro-commissioning offers several advantages:
- Expert Guidance and Support: Receive professional advice on enhancing your building’s overall energy efficiency.
- Hidden Problem Detection: Uncover underlying issues that may be compromising your building’s efficiency.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Improve equipment and system performance to lower operational expenses.
- Enhanced Employee Productivity and Comfort: Achieve greater temperature control for improved employee well-being.
Ideal Scenarios for Retro-Commissioning
Retro-commissioning is particularly beneficial if:
- You’re aiming to establish a baseline for your building’s energy performance.
- You’re actively seeking energy-saving opportunities within your building and its existing equipment.
- You’re experiencing difficulties with effective heating and cooling in your building.
- The occupancy or work function within your building has changed significantly.
- You’re encountering problems with equipment and system performance.
- You’re noticing unexpected increases in your building’s energy costs and usage.
- You’re striving to obtain or enhance a green building certification for your building.
The Impact of Building Automation Systems (BAS) on Retro-Commissioning
Modern buildings are often equipped with Building Automation Systems (BAS), which can play a significant role in retro-commissioning. A BAS can provide valuable data on building performance, such as temperature, humidity, and energy consumption. This data can be used to identify areas where the building is not performing optimally.
Moreover, a BAS can be used to implement some of the recommended energy-saving measures, such as adjusting thermostat settings or optimizing equipment schedules. However, it’s crucial to ensure the BAS itself is properly configured and calibrated to provide accurate data and effective control.
Real-World Examples of Retro-Commissioning Success
Numerous case studies highlight the effectiveness of retro-commissioning. For instance, a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that retro-commissioning can reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings by an average of 16%.
In another example, a hospital in California implemented retro-commissioning measures and achieved annual energy savings of over $200,000. These savings were achieved through relatively simple measures, such as optimizing HVAC schedules and repairing steam leaks.
Conclusion
Retro-commissioning is a valuable process for optimizing building performance, reducing energy consumption, and lowering operating costs. By addressing issues that arise over time, retro-commissioning ensures that your building operates at its full potential. Integrating retro-commissioning into your long-term operations and maintenance strategy can lead to significant and sustainable improvements.
