Innovative approaches to energy efficiency retrofits [WEBINAR] - 3/28/18

Innovative approaches to energy efficiency retrofits [WEBINAR] - 3/28/18

by Clean Coalition · View the channel on PSI

Applied Sciences & Engineering Engineering & Technology TNKBuilding construction and materialsTNKEBuilding physics and energy-efficient construction
🎙 Clean Coalition 👥 249 📅 March 29, 2018 ⏱ 60 min 👁 120 📄 science communication 🧭 2026-10-10
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

energy efficiencyretrofitlease languagebuilding automationsustainability

Summary

The webinar, organized by the Clean Coalition, focuses on innovative approaches to energy efficiency retrofits within the Peninsula Advanced Energy Community (PAEC) initiative. Kim Sprenger from the San Mateo County Office of Sustainability discusses the split-incentive problem in leasing and presents findings from a roundtable on green lease language, emphasizing education, customization, and the importance of letters of intent. Rachel Launder introduces building energy management and control systems (BEMS), citing market saturation data and potential savings. Andy Jane, the county’s energy manager, shares practical experiences implementing Tridium Niagara-based systems, highlighting non-proprietary benefits, integration of meters, and achieved savings in specific buildings. Finally, Ed Minster from Design AVEnues covers residential zero net energy and zero carbon approaches, stressing the importance of existing homes. The webinar provides actionable insights for building owners, tenants, and policymakers, with references to NRDC and other resources.

140 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The value lies in real-world examples and practical guidance from municipal and consultant perspectives. The argumentation is well-structured, moving from policy challenges (lease language) to technological solutions (BEMS) and residential applications. The speakers provide quantitative savings from case studies and cite reputable sources like Navigant Research and ACEEE, though specific data are limited. The discussion of split incentives is particularly insightful, offering concrete recommendations for lease structuring.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The presentation is scientifically grounded, referencing studies from CPUC, ACEEE, and NRDC. However, no original peer-reviewed research is presented; it is primarily experience-based. The title accurately matches the content. The use of the provided link to slides adds credibility. No comments are available for analysis.

127 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content, which covers various retrofit approaches in commercial and residential settings.

Quality & Reliability

7/10

The webinar presents practical case studies and references from established organizations, though it lacks peer-reviewed citations and has limited audience engagement.

Key Moments

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

Cited Sources

  • PAEC Webinar 3 slides — Presentation slides referenced throughout the webinar.
  • NRDC energy efficiency lease language — Mentioned as a baseline for green lease language review.
  • Rocky Mountain Institute best practices for ZNE buildings — Cited as a resource for financial aspects of zero net energy.

Concurring Sources

  • ACEEE Study on Energy Management Systems — Referenced for potential savings of 13-66% in energy bills.

Contribution & Novelties

The webinar provides a practical overview of energy efficiency retrofits from both policy and technology perspectives, highlighting the often-overlooked split-incentive issue and the role of green leases. It also presents real-world case studies of building energy management systems. The innovative aspect is the integration of legal lease language with engineering solutions.

Pour aller plus loin :

  • Green Lease Leaders — A program recognizing best practices in green leasing.
  • Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) — Overview of BEMS technology and components.
  • Zero Net Energy Buildings — U.S. DOE resource on ZNE design and implementation.

93 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows strong quantitative and qualitative information scores, with moderate technical depth and reliability. The content is practical and well-referenced, though not highly technical for experts.

Reliability 7/10