After recent extreme weather events such as wildfires, floods, and the freeze in Texas last winter that knocked out power for large swaths of the state, demand for new forms of power resilience in commercial buildings is on the rise.
Facilities housing essential functions such as data centers and hospitals are most in need of advanced systems to provide power when the grid fails. Specialists first examine a client’s consumption data and utility tariffs, then run simulations using different configurations and technologies.
Then consultants move on to preliminary design work to gauge a system’s feasibility. In recent years, battery systems have been popular as costs have dropped. These storage systems are typically used to augment renewable energy sources at the facility.
Battery systems also allow owners to store energy when rates are low and draw stored energy during periods of peak demand when rates spike. This strategy reaps significant savings over time.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 11, 2017
OSHA prompts more proactive approach to construction site safety
Remote operated camera systems are being used to mitigate risk in real time.
Codes and Standards | Jan 10, 2017
Plunging solar power costs making PVs more compelling for owners, developers
Technical and manufacturing advances are driving down prices.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
Boston’s plans for new development at odds with flood projections
One plan calls for building in areas predicted to be flooded during high tides as sea levels rise.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
New LEED for Cities, LEED for Communities pilot certifications unveiled
Requires tracking of performance data and progress toward goals.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2017
China claims top ranking outside of U.S. for total LEED-certified space
Canada, India, Brazil, and Korea round out top 5.
Codes and Standards | Jan 6, 2017
OSHA prompts more proactive approach to construction site safety
Remote operated camera systems are being used to mitigate risk in real time.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2017
2018 building energy code upholds efficiency gains
Efforts to scale back efficiency requirements largely defeated.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2017
Low-income housing doesn’t lower neighborhood housing values
A Trulia study contradicts longstanding fears.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2017
Intelligent transportation systems have implications for designers, construction firms
Sensors and Internet of Things devices will have to be embedded in infrastructure.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2016
OSHA releases safety recommendation guide for construction industry
It is said to be most helpful to small and mid-sized contractors.