University's Successful Energy Efficiency Initiative Saves $787,547 Yearly, Enhances Comfort, Eco-friendliness, and Asset Durability.
Rutgers University (RU) in the Northeastern United States has seen significant improvements in energy efficiency and operational efficiency, thanks to a 2016 energy conservation project led by Cimetrics. The project, which focused on optimising building automation systems, has resulted in substantial energy savings, enhanced monitoring and control capabilities, and improved occupant comfort.
The project, which spanned across nine buildings on the RU campus, included research laboratories, studio art spaces, classrooms, and library facilities. Cimetrics engineers collaborated closely with the client team, providing actionable recommendations through both online and offline channels.
Key Results
The project yielded several key results. Energy consumption was reduced due to improved scheduling and system tuning. Fault detection and diagnostics were enhanced, leading to quicker issue resolution. Occupant comfort improved through better environmental controls, and data-driven insights helped facility managers make informed decisions on energy management.
Impact
The project demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating advanced analytics and building automation controls in a large institutional environment. It helped Rutgers University lower operational costs and reduce its carbon footprint. The successful implementation of the project has established a model for future energy conservation initiatives on campus and potentially influenced other universities or institutions to adopt similar strategies.
Data Collection and Analysis
The Analytika Pro solution, provided by Cimetrics, was used to collect data from the systems for energy management and efficiency purposes. Data was collected every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Over 900 Analytika software algorithms were used to analyse the data.
Over 85% of the recommended actions were implemented, and approximately 1.1 million data samples are collected per day from the buildings. The data is collected from various systems, including but not limited to the building automation system.
Operational Uptime and Equipment Improvements
Operational uptime improvements were found, and potential equipment problems were uncovered during the data analysis. Opportunities for profitable retrofit projects were found, and opportunities for occupant comfort improvement were identified.
Achieving RU's Sustainability Goals
Rutgers University has set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% below 2005 levels by 2020. The energy conservation measures, new technologies, cleaner fuels, behavioural shifts, and adherence to sustainable construction and renovation standards are some of the strategies RU aims to use to achieve this goal. The success of the Cimetrics project demonstrates a significant step towards this goal.
A news article was published on February 17, 2016, detailing the collaboration between Cimetrics, Rutgers University, and the building automation system provider to connect to and collect sensor and actuator data from over 11,425 physical points. The project continues to be a shining example of effective energy conservation in large institutional environments.
Read also:
- Citizen Thekla Walker, Minister, urges: "Let's face our responsibilities at home"
- Editorial Correspondence: Justifying the Elimination of a Program Earmarked for Reducing Our Own Carbon Footprint?
- Parliamentary proceedings in Germany's Bundestag this week
- Fracking Breakdown: Advantages, Drawbacks, and Financial Implications
