Facility managers who may need to comply with ASHRAE 90.1-2010 (or some state-modified version thereof) should think through how they may do so at the design stage for any new construction, renovation, or equipment replacement. Trying to make a project compliant once purchasing or construction has started is too late. Because the standard could take effect for many this fall, projects presently on the drawing board may need some tweaking.
As with all prior versions of the ASHRAE code, two general paths are available for determining compliance:
As with earlier code versions, various alternative methods for compliance (e.g., room-by-room lighting power density versus overall system LPD) are offered. To minimize the costs for compliance, designers experienced with such options should be involved, especially for large or complex facilities. ASHRAE's Energy Cost Budget Method allows building designers some latitude to trade off lower efficiency options they want by also including different options that exceed the ASHRAE standard sufficiently to compensate. While this method is more complex, it should be considered. Options that are cost-effective in one region may not be elsewhere. Being able to take into account one's local energy pricing may allow some wiggle room when trying to find a lower cost way to comply.
Lindsay Audin, CEM, LEED AP, CEP, is president of EnergyWiz, an energy consulting firm based in Croton, N.Y. He is a contributing editor for Building Operating Management. He can be reached at energywiz@aol.com.
How Tougher Energy Efficiency Standards Will Affect Facility Managers
Tighter Energy Codes Are Applying To Smaller Buildings, Building Systems
Steps To Take To Be Compliant With ASHRAE 90.1-2010
What You Need To Know About The ASHRAE 90.1 Standard Process
