Monitoring based Retro-Commissioning(MBRCx)

Monitoring based Retro-commissioning is a key component of Energy Efficiency Sustainability Cycle. Over the last decade or so, diagnostic techniques and automated tools have been developed that assist in detecting operational faults and degradation in the performance of building systems and diagnosing their causes. These techniques and tools can significantly reduce the time, effort and level of knowledge required to acquire and analyze data to reveal energy-consuming operational faults, such as failed sensors, inoperable economizer dampers, poorly implemented schedules, and improperly charged direct expansion equipment, to name few. These tools provide information valuable for identifying opportunities for saving energy through improved operations and detecting faults and performance degradation as they occur, enabling their timely correction, thus helping ensure persistent savings.

What is Monitoring based retro-commissioning (MBRCx)?

Monitoring based Retro-commissioning is the application of the commissioning process to existing buildings. Retro-commissioning is a process that seeks to improve how building equipment and systems function together. Depending on the age of the building, retro-commissioning can often resolve problems that occurred during design or construction, or address problems that have developed throughout the building's life. In all, retro-commissioning improves a building's operations and maintenance (O&M) procedures to enhance overall building performance. All forms of building commissioning share the same goals: to produce a building that meets the unique needs of its owner and occupants, operates as efficiently as possible, provides a safe, comfortable work environment, and is operated and maintained by a well-trained staff or service contractor.

How does it work?

Monitoring-Based Retro-Commissioning (MBRCx) employs remote energy system metering with trend log capability to identify previously unrecognized inefficiencies in energy system operations, facilitate the application of diagnostic protocols, document energy savings from operational improvements, and ensure persistence of savings through ongoing re-commissioning. MBRCx also has the potential to identify previously unrecognized cost-effective retrofit opportunities. In addition, the monitoring equipment will provide enhanced benchmarking capability. MBRCx process aides in overall energy management efforts as well as design of new buildings and infrastructure.

Why is retro-commissioning important?

Commercial buildings frequently undergo operational and occupancy changes that challenge the mechanical, electrical and controls systems, hindering optimal performance. Additionally, in today's complex buildings, systems are highly interactive with sophisticated control systems that can create a trickle-down effect on building operations - small problems have big effects on performance. Unfortunately, most buildings have never gone through any type of commissioning process, and even well-constructed buildings experience performance degradation over time. No matter how well building operators and service contractors maintain equipment, if it operates inefficiently or more often than needed, energy waste and reliability problems can occur.

What are the benefits of retro-commissioning?

Everyone benefits from retro-commissioning. For owners, retro-commissioning reduces building operating costs that can lead to an increase in net operating income. Building managers notice fewer occupant complaints and increased ability to manage systems. Building staff receive training and improved documentation, and building occupants are more comfortable. Cost Savings: Retro-commissioning can produce significant cost savings in existing buildings. Savings vary depending on the building type, its location, and the scope of the retro-commissioning process.

Retro-commissioning studies place the potential energy savings from improved operation and maintenance (O&M) of commercial buildings between 5% and 30%. It has the highest ROI of any energy conservation measure and the fastest payback in many cases.

The many documented benefits resulting from retro-commissioning include:

If you are interested in finding out more about retro-commissioning and how it can help you lower your energy bills please contact us!

Energy Efficiency Sustainability Cycle Monitoring Based Commissioning