Energy Projects

The Aerospace campus project upgrades HVAC systems by adding Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) and Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV). VFDs optimize motor speed for energy efficiency, while DCV adjusts ventilation based on occupancy or air quality. This retrofit improves energy use, reduces costs, and enhances indoor air quality. Expected electricity and gas savings per year are 191 MWh and 1,590 GJ respectively.

This project involves replacing existing pneumatic actuators with more advanced, efficient electronic models. This enhances the control and precision of valve operations in systems like HVAC or industrial processes, improving performance, reliability, and energy efficiency. Upgrading pneumatic actuators to more efficient, modern versions typically lead to energy savings of 15%. These savings come from improved control precision, reduced air consumption, and better overall system performance, which leads to less energy waste and optimized operations

Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) to optimize fresh air intake and variable frequency drive (VFD) retrofit project will be implemented at the Centre for Applied Research & Innovation (CARI). Considering the operating hours of the air handling units, substantial energy saving on overall air-conditioning system and the motors is anticipated. Expected electricity and gas savings per year are 389 MWh and 287 GJ respectively.

Building-level submetering involves installing individual meters to track energy consumption for different areas or systems within a building (e.g., HVAC, lighting, equipment). This enables more precise monitoring, helping identify inefficiencies, optimize energy use, and improve cost management by allocating energy costs based on actual consumption.

The pneumatic upgrade study involves assessing the current pneumatic systems and identifying opportunities for improvement. The goal is to evaluate the performance of existing pneumatic components, such as actuators and controls, and recommend upgrades to enhance energy efficiency, system reliability, and overall performance. The study will focus on optimizing airflow, reducing energy waste, and improving control precision across both buildings. It is estimated that electricity and gas savings per year are 55 MWh (by Pinchin) and 1,380 GJ respectively.

We are evaluating the district energy system’s hydronic piping to identify opportunities for modernization, improve efficiency, and address challenges such as aging infrastructure and rising energy demands. This assessment aims to optimize the system, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability. As part of these efforts, a 1 MW electric boiler is being installed to provide a more

A comprehensive assessment of the building envelopes for five buildings on the Burnaby campus was carried out. This involved using aerial thermography and advanced AI software to detect and measure energy loss caused by envelope problems. The assessment also identified the most cost-effective retrofits, focusing on the best return on investment (ROI) and targeted strategies to drive actionable improvements.

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance occupant comfort, BCIT intends to upgrade the server room cooling system in the CARI building. This project will focus on improving the efficiency of the HVAC systems serving the D Wing of the CARI building, with a particular emphasis on the main server room cooling and addressing the simultaneous heating and cooling issues that have been identified.