In 2019, UCSF partnered with PG&E to complete a Monitoring Based Commissioning Program (MBCx) in order to address a number of energy-saving opportunities in Byers Hall. Monitoring-based commissioning (MkwBCx) collects metering data on the building over a set period of time to determine where UCSF can reduce electricity and natural gas expenditure. Out of 15 proposed initiatives, 11 were implemented and completed, with a combined energy savings of over 1 million kWh of electricity annually.
Background
Byers Hall is a research laboratory building located at 600 16th street in UCSF’s Mission Bay campus. This MBCx study focused on energy saving measures around the HVAC system and lighting controls. The following is a comprehensive list of the 11 Energy Conservation Measures (ECM) that were implemented following PG&E’s analysis of the building:
| | ECM Description |
| | AHU Static Pressure Reset: Pressure sensors maintain optimal air duct pressure, preventing overcorrection and excess energy use. |
| 2 | AHU Supply Air Temperature Reset: Aligning SAT with Outside Air Temperature reduces simultaneous heating and cooling, optimizing energy use. |
| 4 | Demand Controlled Ventilation (DCV) - Motion Sensors: Motion sensors activate standby mode for VAV boxes in unoccupied rooms, conserving energy. |
| 5 | VAV Temperature Deadband and Range: Adjusted set points in non-laboratory zones to reduce automatic heating and cooling energy consumption. |
| 6 | FCU Reprogramming and Setpoints: Raised setpoints for Fan Coil Units, optimizing fan operation for energy efficiency. |
| 7 | AC Unit Optimization: Programmed rooftop AC units to turn off upon reaching a cooling setpoint of 80°F, conserving energy. |
| | VAV Terminal Unit Minimum CM: Adjusted ventilation rates for non-laboratory zones to comply with Title 24 requirements, ensuring energy efficiency. |
| 10 | Side Stream Filter Control: Implemented controls on the cooling tower basin pump to optimize performance and reduce runtime during specified hours. |
| 11 | Condenser Water Temperature Reset: Programmed temperature reset between 68°F and 76°F to optimize cooling operations. |
| | 15 Lighting Controls: Repaired relay-based control components and updated lighting zones to automatically turn on at specified times. |
| 16 | Exhaust Fan Optimization: Modeled wind speed and chemical dispersion for primary exhaust fan stacks, adjusting programming for reduced fan speed and safe chemical dispersion. |
Results: UC San Francisco's Facilities Services received a rebate check of $262,365.89 from Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) for implementing a range of energy efficiency measures at Byers Hall. The calculated savings amount to 1,622 therms which equates to 8.58 metric tons of carbon emissions.
