A retrofit solution that has been tested on a nationwide basis has been found to cut energy usage associated with Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems by an average of 30%. This particular solution can be installed by Airco Energy Solutions in under 30 minutes and can result in a positive return on investment in as little as 6 to 18 months. Such a solution should be actively considered by every organization, as it will soon be necessary for them to be seen to be sustainable and to be taking action to reduce energy usage.
HVAC systems are not known for their overall efficiency, as they have a particularly difficult task to achieve when trying to maintain efficient temperatures within often hostile environments. The systems are designed to create modified conditions within a contained area and then distribute these conditions within a particular building. Typically, these systems react to changing conditions through a series of processes and as the internal and external temperatures are always fluctuating, there tends to be an overrun between these processes, causing a net excess energy use. A retrofit solution would include very sensitive sensors and algorithms, designed to detect thermodynamic saturation very efficiently, enabling the compressor to operate more efficiently. The compressor itself could be cycled optimally and “freeze over” conditions affecting the evaporator could be avoided.
A retrofit solution is of considerable interest to a wide variety of businesses that rely on HVAC systems at the core of their operations. Without these systems they would not be able to operate and they are very acutely aware that energy related costs represent a large monthly expense. Any solution that helps to achieve greater efficiency, can drive down expenditure and position the organization well in its competitive marketplace must be considered.
Retrofitting is now attracting considerable interest, as it represents what could be considered as a happy medium between major capital expenditure and burgeoning energy costs. With budgets squeezed, it is not easy to find the funds available to invest in major new items of equipment, with a return on investment spread even more thinly. A retrofit solution could achieve additional performance from the company’s assets and could also help to significantly cut down carbon emissions related to energy use.
It seems clear that every organization will soon have to take responsibility for its energy use and all its carbon emissions. Carbon will now likely become a traded commodity and once that happens the organization that does not control its energy use through optimum asset performance will suffer competitively.
The Federal government is considering the American Clean Energy and Security Act, currently passing through Congress. Part of the Act includes a program to help pay for retrofit solutions. It is estimated that if this passes it could make a significant portion of any retrofit program the subject of an incentive, or rebates to be passed from the federal level through the states.
{ 1 comment }