Valquest has extensive experience in the performance of Energy
Audit and Energy Analysis activities; this includes such diverse
projects as schools, hospitals, manufacturing plants, office facilities
and shopping centers. Valquest has also developed and maintained
specialized forms for the efficient auditing and tabulation of energy
consuming elements.
Program Approach and Methodology
Phase I
Phase I consists of analyzing the energy history of a
facility using prior year utility history. Initially construction
documents are reviewed to perform a cursory inspection of
a facility to determine construction type, physical condition
of structure, internal loads, central plant and operational
parameters. Subsequently, results of the utility history
and inspection are compared to a generic facility type.
An estimate of potential energy savings, "ballpark"
cost estimate of implementation and recommended course of
action is developed.
Phase II (Optional)
Phase II consists of a detailed energy audit and energy analysis.
The energy analysis will include a final report, which will
contain the estimated cost benefit of alternate energy conservation
measures. This phase of the program will include the following:
A complete energy audit of
all energy consuming elements within and adjacent
to the facility will be conducted. This includes all
exterior parking, security or other lighting. Client
will receive a copy of all audit information.
An inspection of the following
facility systems will also be conducted: control systems
for lighting and HVAC, central plant, air handling
and domestic hot water systems. A report defining
the present operating condition of the equipment and
recommended repairs of parts replacement will be produced.
Maintenance and operating
procedures based on interviews with maintenance personnel
will be tabulated. A list of improvements will be
prepared based on a thorough analysis of these procedures.
Using the information obtained
above, a total facility energy analysis will be performed.
The methodology used in this analysis procedure will
involve the utilization of an hour-by-hour, Transfer
Function Method, environmental simulation program
developed by Valquest. Site specific solar and weather
information will be obtained from the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric
Administration data files.
Using the results of the energy analysis, potential
Energy Conservation Measures (ECM's) are devised.
These ECM's may include new equipment, changes in
operating conditions, addition, deletion or modification
of controls, building passive solar additions, etc.;
or any combination of the above.
After the list of ECM's has
been prepared, alternate scheme analysis will be performed
on selected ECM's. Detailed analysis of ECM's will
include a comparison to a base scheme representing
the existing system and operational configuration.
Subsequently, these ECM's will be ranked in order
of greatest cost benefit, highest energy reduction
and lowest investment cost.
A final report will be submitted
which will include all recommended maintenance and
operating procedures and Energy Conservation Measures.
This final report will be prepared in such a manner
that Client will be able to decide to proceed with
Phase III and/or Phase IV using in-house staff or
seek outside professional services.
Phase III (Optional)
Specific energy conservation
recommendations based on cost effectiveness and overall
value will be selected. This phase of the program will
include the following:
Analyze Phase II ECM's comprehending Client
objectives and budget constraints. Perform life-cycle,
simple payback or other cost analyses to insure
a match between Client objectives and Phase
II ECM's.
Select specific ECM's and assist Client in
the preparation and presentation of program
to fund approval authority. Attend presentation,
if requested, to assist in explanation of program
and for general technical support.
Phase IV (Optional)
Specifications
and documents necessary for execution of Phase
III selected ECM's will be prepared. This phase
of the program will include the following:
Prepare detailed
equipment specification and design documents
required for the purchase and installation
of equipment. If requested, assist Client
in the purchase and installation of
equipment; including on-site inspection
and verification of proper operation.
Assist Client
in the implementation of selected ECM
operating procedures resulting from
Phase III. Follow-up implementation
after suitable time frame to insure
proper system integration.
Fees
Valquest can usually provide an Energy Audit and Energy Analysis
Service for 50% of the Estimated Energy Savings for the first year
realized as a result of the recommended ECM's, which meet Client
specifications on the project.