Lighting Retrofit
April, 8th 2014
Background
After July 01, 2012 lighting manufacturers will stop producing T12 fluorescent systems for energy reduction purposes. This change in standards is due to the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) efforts to remove less energy-efficient T12 fluorescent systems from the marketplace and to encourage commercial and industrial facilities to improve lighting efficiency. In response to this, WSU FP&M is not only stopping the use of T12 fluorescent systems but actively seeking out the most efficient sources of lighting for our campus including reduced wattage T8 fluorescent and T8 LED.
Current Scenario
An in-house dedicated lighting retrofit crew is currently working around campus to complete these retrofits. Completed buildings include, Prentis, Arts building, Shapero Hall, Engineering, Engineering Technologies, Elliman Clinical Research, and work has begun on the FAB building. A total of 37 buildings with T12 fluorescent systems remain and will be retrofitted over the next two years.
WSU FP&M has standardized on 4000K color temperature to ensure quality lighting for the building occupants.
Energy Savings
In a recent life cycle cost analysis, it was found that by switching from T12 Fluorescent to LED lighting will reduce the electricity load by nearly 600kW once the project is complete.
Annually the completed project energy savings equate to:
• Nearly 2,000 Metric Tons of CO2 Emissions saved OR
• Removing 400 Vehicles from the Road
If you have any questions regarding the lighting retrofit project please feel free to call Larry Fodor at 577-4352.
Variable Frequency Drives and Controls
May, 16th 2014
Background
Wayne State University FP&M is assessing and implementing VFD’s in applications where it makes the most sense and produces a good ROI. Many buildings at Wayne State are in need of VFD’s and are now being targeted for Energy Conservation Measures (ECM’s). VFD’s provide a great way to reduce electrical costs, including peak demand, while maintaining or improving building comfort and control. VFD’s will modulate to maintain precise parameters to meet demands put on the various building systems. This also allows for reduced maintenance costs when systems are not constantly running at capacity.
A typical constant volume AHU is designed to output CFM based on worst case scenarios, that being the hottest day in the summer when cooling loads are the greatest. This is great for the peak days, but the rest of the year this capacity can and should be dialed back using VFD’s.
In regards to pumping capacity, hydronic systems are often designed for worst case scenario situations as well, having and using excess capacity, while the majority of the time they are not needed to run at full load thus VFD’s can modulate to run system only at necessary capacity. Domestic water systems are also a potential candidate for VFD’s which will only ramp up on high demand.
Current Scenario
An in-house building automation team is working on identifying these ECM’s and their ability to connect VFD’s to the Building Management System (BMS) if applicable. Once these have been identified, a quote for the parts is issued and money is requested for the project. The energy management team is responsible for estimating the payback of these and other ECM’s in order to help achieve funding goals. Several Buildings are being assessed and quoted to receive VFD controls and new motors if necessary.
Energy Saving Opportunities
The Undergraduate Library has a 60HP cooling tower motor currently running at constant volume, this is being assessed for a VFD application. The estimated savings are to be around 40,000 Kwh per year.
Reuther Library has a 60hp Supply fan and 20hp return fan of which both are being assessed for potential VFD applications. This will not only save roughly 50,000Kwh per year but will also help keep the building more balanced.