Challenge
Fisher knew their utility costs were above average and wanted to reduce them. However, the management team wasn’t sure how to cost effectively pursue energy efficiency upgrades while meeting the company’s required ROI.
Solution
Fisher brought in ColonialWebb due to their long-standing partnership, built from years of maintenance services to their facilities. The Green Energy Solutions team used their Energy Dig, a unique, collaborative auditing process, to identify energy efficient options. With specialists from ColonialWebb and Fisher employees, the Energy Dig uncovered many opportunities for the company to create value through energy conservation measures (ECMs).
The Energy Dig resulted in lighting retrofits and improved HVAC control systems that more efficiently meet the usage profile of the space. Metal Halide lighting systems were replaced with “High Bay” T8 fixtures that use 68% less energy. These lights produce significantly less heat in the space, enabling several HVAC units to be decommissioned resulting in additional energy savings.
A wireless Autani “Energy Management System” was installed, providing Fisher’s facility maintenance team instant access to the building’s thermostats and newly installed electric meter via any web browser. As a result, building operating hours can be closely monitored and adjusted to account for varying operating hours and holiday scheduling. By providing a detailed view of energy consumption via the new Autani system, waste can be quickly eliminated and projected savings measured more accurately. While the project was in progress, the Green Energy Solutions team identified and assisted Fisher in acquiring $12,000 from Virginia’s Energy Efficiency Rebate Program and $17,759 from Dominion Virginia’s Utility Rebate Program.
A Closer Look
During a difficult economic time when other investments may have high risk and limited potential, this project provides a return on capital exceeding 35%. In just nine months, ColonialWebb has saved Fisher $38,892 (at .082kWh) while conserving 477,844 kWh. The greenhouse emissions avoided by this project are equivalent to the carbon sequestered annually by 73.2 acres of pine forests. The project is currently on track to have a payback of 2 years.