Approach

What is Retrocommissioning?

Retrocommissioning is commissioning applied to an existing building. It's a systematic investigation process designed to improve the efficiency of energy-consuming equipment such as mechanical, electrical, lighting, and control systems. The scope of a Retrocommissioning project generally focuses on observation, diagnostic testing, equipment and system tune-ups, and an evaluation of operations and maintenance procedures. Retrocommissioning can be extremely valuable during any stage in the life of a large facility, regardless of whether the facility was commissioned during construction.

During the life of a building, significant changes - "tweaking" - to equipment and control systems occur over time. These seemingly minor changes are often the result of the maintenance staff responding to occupant comfort demands. Such changes have a cumulative effect on building systems to the point that the equipment no longer operates efficiently. Often, these inefficiencies can be prevented through appropriate operator training.

RetroCom approaches Retrocommissioning from the point of view that retrocommissioning is not a single corrective event but an essential component of ongoing maintenance activities. Numerous studies have shown that persistent energy savings from Retrocommissioning is achieved only with the support and assistance of a properly trained in-house maintenance group. In contrast, Retrocommissioning programs that are not supported over time rapidly fall short of savings expectations. Studies have shown that the significant energy savings potential of retrocommissioning - 41 percent in one study - decreased by 17 percent over a two-year period once the retrocommissioning project was complete. RetroCom's core service offerings - Supported RetroCommissioning, Virtual Energy Services, Green/LEED, and Energy Engineering - address the critical factors that operations and maintenance staff face in the effective and efficient operation of their facility.

What are the Benefits?

A Retrocommissioning program that provides long-term support, training, and performance monitoring provides long-term savings in energy use and consistently effective facility operations. In many cases, Retrocommissioning can eliminate the need for expensive retrofits of existing equipment and improve occupant comfort challenges that have persisted for years. Not only does Retrocommissioning solve hidden problems, the solution pays for itself, frequently within one year.