Demand Reduction

Participants will learn about demand response programs in general and why they are important to the grid and then there will be details of how demand response programs work and what it might be like to be a participant

 

OUR SPEAKERS:

Nam Nguyen – State Energy Manager, VA Department of Energy

As the state energy manager for the Commonwealth of Virginia, Nam develops and implements programs to reduce energy consumption and energy costs for state facilities. He also manages statewide energy contracts , facilitates energy efficiency projects through the state energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) program, and coordinates the state’s demand response (DR) program. Nam previously has over 20 years of experience working in the electric utility industry, with knowledge of distribution and transmission operations, real-time grid network dispatching, as well as system planning and strategic development. He holds an electrical engineering degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University.

Walid M. Daniel, PE, CEM – Utilities and Performance Manager, VA Department of Energy

Walid manages Virginia Energy’s demand response program, including energy efficiency, and helps state facilities find ways to save energy, earn revenue, and achieve their sustainability objectives. Prior to joining Virginia Energy, he managed design and construction projects for the Virginia Dept. of Corrections. Walid holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University and a Master’s of Science in Engineering from Old Dominion University.

Kam Tower – Account Executive, CPower

Kam is the implementation lead for the Virginia Department of Energy’s demand response and energy efficiency programs. When asked what he enjoys most about his work: “It is extremely rewarding working with engineers and energy managers who take pride in supporting their communities. Not only does this Virtual Power Plant serve the grid in a clean and efficient manner, it also drives dollars to entities who are helping their neighbors.” Mr. Tower holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana State University. Kam is highly respected around the state and widely considered an industry expert. His professional attitude and respect for customers are only matched by the fun and energy he brings to the team.

SOME DEMAND RESPONSE STRATEGIES:

Lighting level reductions

Lighting level reductions are realized through turning off lighting and/or the use of programmable dimmable lighting ballasts. Lighting controls can be manual, lighting control systems, or BAS.

Pre-cooling or pre-heating buildings

Takes advantage of the thermal mass of the building structure and its contents to allow a shifting of energy consumption to night when the wholesale prices are low.

Temperature adjustment

Use your BAS to raise or lower the temperature of selected spaces by a pre-determined amount. Spaces that are temperature sensitive should be excluded.

Limit chiller current

Modern chillers can limit maximum current and power. This will allow cooling at a lower level of energy consumption with a small drift in space temperature.

Put building into early unoccupied mode

During unoccupied hours the following three measures are deployed by the BAS– space temperature is set back, outside air dampers are closed, and fans go from a continuous mode to on/off cycling.

Change static pressure set point (or VFD speed) on VAV systems

The supply-air static pressure can be reset to conserve fan energy. Alternatively, fan VFD speed can be reset to have a similar effect.

Cycle constant volume fans and air handler units

Units with carbon dioxide sensors and controls can automatically ensure the proper amount of outside air is brought into the building.

Increase chilled water temperature on constant volume HVAC systems

Some building automation systems can regulate the chilled water temperature on Chillers. By increasing the chilled water temperature, a facility can often reduce energy usage without affecting comfort.

Reduce supply air temperature on VAV systems

Reducing supply air temp will reduce amount of air needed to satisfy space temperatures. Care must be taken not to increase reheat energy.

Initiate EMS demand limiting schemes

Demand Limiting is a control function that enables management of peak demand level by shedding predefined loads when the building/facility demand nears a preset maximum.

Education and acculturation

People use energy. There are items that individuals can be responsible for. All plug loads can be controlled through this strategy.