Not so long ago, availability was the driver for data center design.
Solutions to this challenge have developed, and while it is still a
critical goal, an additional driver has emerged: energy efficient
design. Optimizing power usage effectiveness (PUE™) is dominating the
current conversation.
New tools and technologies that help create high performance buildings seem to spring up daily and evolve quickly. One of the most promising advancements is solid state lighting (SSL), which includes both light-emitting diode (LED) and organic light emitting diode (OLED) lighting. In this blog post, we discuss how to get the best value in the application of these technologies.
GHT recently held an internal competition to recognize the most innovative MEP engineering solution developed by our staff in 2011. We were expecting the votes to pour in for designs using the newest, coolest products, but the top honor went to a solution that was developed by combining elements of products that have been on the market for years – in a whole new way.
When investigating opportunities to improve energy efficiency at our clients’ facilities, we often find that significant savings can be achieved by replacing aged transformers with new high efficiency models. A recent energy audit we performed for an 850,000 SF corporate headquarters projected that a transformer replacement could reduce electrical utility costs by $60k+ per year, with payback within five years.
When implemented properly, detailed energy metering and tracking can benefit both tenants and building owners. Measuring energy use provides a benchmark for improvement, and when payment is directly tied to usage, consumption goes down.
GHT's "Boost Building Performance with Innovative MEP Systems" presentation will provide attendees with 1 AIA Learning Unit.
Energy conservation has become a sustainable design standard. Progressive designers are focusing on water conservation as their next challenge and are moving beyond faucets and fixtures to develop innovative water reclamation solutions.
An energy audit can help you quickly assess your building’s operating efficiency and identify potential opportunities to improve its performance.
