Commercial Codes Controls Research

Lead Performer: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) – Richland, WA
FY16 DOE Funding: $300,000
Project Term: Current – October 31, 2016
Funding Type: Direct Lab Funding

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

This project will help to determine if codes controls requirements save the expected amount of energy after installation. PNNL will conduct preliminary research to determine whether controls requirements in the commercial building energy code are being complied with and are saving the amount of energy anticipated in real buildings. They will quantify how much time, effort, and knowledge is required to determine compliance and energy savings. PNNL will review controls plans, settings, and utility billing information, as well as go on-site to investigate the functionality and use of installed systems in recently constructed buildings.

PROJECT IMPACT

Building energy codes establish energy conservation requirements for residential and commercial buildings, and represent an opportunity to incorporate proven energy-efficient technologies into standard design and construction practices. The United States has realized significant energy savings through building energy codes, with today’s model codes enabling new buildings to use 30% less energy than codes that were in place just 10 years ago. Since program conception (1992–2012), DOE Building Energy Codes Program activities have contributed to an estimated 4 quads of cumulative primary energy savings and cost savings to consumers of more than $44 billion. This project helps to ensure compliance with building energy codes, which is key to realizing the intended savings and environmental benefits. 

CONTACTS

DOE Technology Manager: David Cohan
Lead Performer: Bing Liu, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

RELATED PUBLICATIONS

https://www.energycodes.gov/compliance