The State of California was seeking ways to reduce operating and energy costs in light of astronomical energy price increases.
3FFICIENT’s Role:
3FFICIENT staff analyzed their energy use and provided an investment grade engineering study that would later be used for a complete building retrofit. 3FFICIENT personnel performed on-site detailed survey, reviewed construction blueprints and documentation and interviewed of building personnel. A detailed computer simulation was undertaken to evaluate the energy saving potential of numerous HVAC changes including: VAV (Variable Air Volume) conversion; Air Filters; Piping modifications and VFD (Variable Frequency Drives) on chilled water and hot water pumps; Solar domestic hot water system installation; Insulation; Relocating equipment; Motor replacement: Energy management systems; High efficiency chillers; High efficiency air conditioners; High efficiency heat pumps; Free cooling with wet-side economizers; Heat recovery from the Thermal Oxidizer system; Compressed Air System upgrades.
Solution:
This project involved extensive retrofits to lighting, HVAC, water, wastewater and other supporting systems. Oddly enough, construction was deferred for several years due primarily to the energy crisis impact on the state’s budget and finance.
Environmental Benefits:
- Annual Energy Savings: 85 kW; 464,293 kWh; 7,575 Therms
- Annual Emissions Savings: 491,665 lbs CO2 (GHG); 799 lbs NOx (smog); 873 lbs SO2 (acid rain)
- Equivalent to planting 733 trees
- Equivalent to not driving 537,806 miles in a car
- Equivalent to powering 41 large homes with renewable energy
