Retro-commissioning (RCx)
Get Your Building Running Right
Retro-commissioning is the process of getting a building to run as originally designed. We take that a step further by getting the building to run optimally. Fully operations Building Automation Systems (BAS) are key to a well operating and efficient facility. FES will collaborate with site technicians, programmer and/or controls contractor to review and implement changes to improve efficiency. This can include writing of Sequence Of Operations (SOO), implementation assistance, commissioning of SOO, and troubleshooting of code “gone wild”.
Experience has shown that the desired programming is often not completed as designed, may not follow the sequence (canned programming) or is just not working as it should. FES’ approach to implementation assistance ensures our SOO works as intended. Measurement and verification is the process of utilizing trends and utility data to verify that SOO and energy savings are operating as desired and reduction goals are being achieved.
Where Are You Now?
Retro-commissioning involves a thorough analysis of a building’s existing energy systems and usage patterns to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. By assessing the current condition of HVAC, lighting, and other energy-consuming systems, retrocommissioning provides actionable insights that can lead to operational tweaks or equipment upgrades, ultimately enhancing energy efficiency and reducing costs. We utilize the following services during this phase:
- Building Energy Audit
- Complete Utility Study
Where Do You Want To Go?
Retro-commissioning serves as a foundational step in developing an energy model for potential energy efficiency projects, offering a baseline of current system performances and energy consumption patterns. This baseline data is crucial for simulating various efficiency scenarios and interventions, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions about which projects will yield the greatest energy savings and return on investment. We perform the following during this step:
- Energy Modeling
- Financial Forecasting
How Will You Get There?
Retro-commissioning provides the empirical data needed to develop a strategic implementation plan for energy projects, identifying the most pressing inefficiencies and operational issues in a building’s existing systems. Armed with this information, stakeholders can prioritize interventions, schedule upgrades, and allocate resources more effectively, ensuring that the energy projects undertaken offer the maximum impact in terms of efficiency gains and cost savings.
- Plan Development
- Turn-Key Implementation
Total RCx Value
Retro-commissioning gets your building working as it was designed to. From an energy perspective that means:
Reduction in energy usage
The ultimate goal of any RCX project is to make the building more energy efficient and to reduce total energy consumption.
Increase in energy savings
With a significant reduction in energy usage, your bills will lower and your bottom line will increase.
A more sustainable building
The implementation of various energy efficiency projects can help your building be more green.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the scope and benefits of energy retrocommissioning can empower commercial and industrial facility operators to take proactive steps towards improving efficiency and sustainability, while also benefiting the bottom line.
Energy retrocommissioning is the process of reviewing and optimizing the existing systems and operations in a facility to ensure they are operating as efficiently as possible. Unlike an energy audit, which primarily identifies opportunities for upgrades and improvements, RCx focuses on fine-tuning existing systems for optimal performance without necessarily replacing them.
RCx commonly targets HVAC systems, lighting controls, building automation systems, and other mechanical systems like chillers and boilers. The goal is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these systems by recalibrating and fine-tuning them.
RCx commonly targets HVAC systems, lighting controls, building automation systems, and other mechanical systems like chillers and boilers. The goal is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these systems by recalibrating and fine-tuning them.
Benefits often include reduced energy costs, improved system performance, and better indoor environmental quality. Additionally, RCx can extend the life of equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and improve reliability, thus offering a strong return on investment.
The timeframe for an RCx project can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the facility. A simple project might only take a few weeks, whereas a more complex industrial facility could take several months to complete. It's important to plan accordingly to minimize operational disruptions.
Facilities that have been in operation for several years and have not undergone recent comprehensive commissioning are often good candidates. Older facilities with outdated equipment or those experiencing comfort issues, system imbalances, or higher-than-expected energy costs can particularly benefit from RCx.
An RCx project generally begins with an initial assessment to identify systems that may require attention. This is followed by a detailed investigation where tests are performed and data is collected. The findings are then analyzed to develop a list of recommended actions, which are implemented in the final stage. Post-implementation, ongoing monitoring may be conducted to ensure the continued effectiveness of the measures taken.
Why FES?
We’re here to help! FES is a boutique engineering firm offering customized solutions that are specific to the needs of your building and personnel. After a thorough on-site evaluation, FES will provide a list of recommended energy efficiency measures available for implementation with internal resources (at your own pace), or you can choose to let us manage the project from start to finish. Our identified solutions will allow for more efficient building operation with improved reliability while reducing your overall utility costs.
