Wolfe Street TR3 Labs Energy Reduction

BKM provided prime MEP services for conversion of supply air terminal units and fume hoods from constant volume to variable volume for 26 labs in TR3, spanning 62,000 square feet. As part of the project, an in-depth energy analysis was performed on the laboratory space lighting power, airflow, and associated heating and cooling energy consumption. This analysis was integrated with local utility provider programs to achieve maximum energy savings for the building.

TR3 is a teaching and research lab area located in the Wolfe Building. JHBSPH had an overarching goal to optimize the air systems to reduce energy consumption by reducing the air changes per hour (ACH) in each laboratory. New control devices were added to the existing constant volume supply and return air terminal units to change them to variable flow operation. New retrofit kit with occupancy sensors were added to the existing fume hoods. Load calculations were performed to verify the minimum and maximum air change rate can be 2 ACH and 6 ACH, respectively. Direct digital controls (DDCs) were provided and connected to the existing Schneider Electric Energy Management System as the basis of design. Electrical modifications included the replacement of motors in the central supply AHU and exhaust fans with inverter duty motors, power for additional ATC control panels, and installation of occupancy sensors related to general room occupancy status and future lighting control. An energy model was performed to determine the reduction in energy consumption once the recommendations were implemented. The client received a substantial payment to offset construction costs from the incentive program offered by the power company. Pre- and post-construction airflow testing and trending was performed to show an average reduction to approximately 75% of previous airflow across the HVAC in aggregate, with a consummate reduction in fan energy used. The systems are operating as intended, including a reduction in lighting energy.