Stepping Over the (Tech) Gap Until It's Filled: Achieving High Performance in Existing Buildings

Andrea Mancino
Proposal Status
Ready for Committee Review
Username
Andrea Mancino
Proposer First Name
Amritha
Proposer Email
arajan@brightpower.com
Proposer Last Name
Rajan
Proposer Job Title
Project Manager
Proposer Additional Info
Andrea Mancino is submitting a proposal on Amritha's behalf.
Proposed Session Description
Existing buildings pose one of the largest challenges related to truly impactful decarbonization. There are many hurdles to overcome, and the industry still hasn't quite found the one size fits all solution. Many owners are also overwhelmed by decision making and the all or nothing mentality that presents itself when evaluating potential Local Law 97 emission fines. This beginning of this session will highlight two in depth case studies of projects where creative envelope and mechanical strategies were evaluated using cost benefit analyses and energy modeling, what measures were selected and why. The second portion will be a panel style discussion with all parties involved of how a truly integrated process made this project successful.
Why is this session important?
Existing buildings are still a huge challenge related to decarbonization. Technology itself isn't the only solution addressing these challenges. Combining technology with a detailed and iterative evaluation process, and creative thinking from design teams is equally as critical. While we still haven't figured out the technology gap related to plug and play retrofit solutions (a la Energiesprong), we can still make progress and bridge gaps. These case studies are examples of that.

Comments

Leah McGovern Mon, 05/02/2022 - 10:54 am

Round 1: MAYBE, deep energy retrofit is a huge opportunity in pursuing the Local Law 97 requirements. This topic would be very relevant, especially for New York City.

Paul Cosway Tue, 05/03/2022 - 10:02 am

Yes - I think some focus on the tech gap is important.  Especially as this leads to the difficulty of bridging all of the other gaps.  When the technlogy is not settled, almost any perceived risk to changing the status quo is sufficient to stop progress.

Tristan Grant Wed, 05/04/2022 - 6:08 pm

Round 1: Yes - This sounds like a fun format (case studies followed by panel discussion), and I would be especially interested if the case studies have gone to install, and they can share some of the insights from that, from the different panelist perspectives. I think this session would have a lot of value, both to design practitioners who will be grappling with similar analysis currently or in the near future, and especially for building owners/operators who want to draw on these experiences for how to make similar assessments and decisions on their buildings or portfolios

Ben Sachs-Hamilton Mon, 05/09/2022 - 11:59 am

Round 1 Discussion:Case study followed by panel, good mix of speakers. Ask for more details, who to speak, types of technology, etc.

Leah McGovern Thu, 05/26/2022 - 4:56 pm

 Round 2: NO Did not feel that this presentation is in a place where it would be ready for the NYC conference. Did not get a lot of information from the speaker on the details. The two case studies don't seem to be implementing hugely innovative retrofit solutions, and neither is have gone to install. There also isn't much confirmation on the speaker panel either. Christina may have more weigh in as she participated in the interview as well. Notes on DiscussionBrightPower - Feasibility tool (similar to RMI Portfolio optimization tool) 2 case studies (both MF retrofits - cluster buildings, both 6/7 stories) both going through retrofit process anyway: Trying to push some PH strategies to these customers Neither going through NYSERDA program one building is finishing design phase - beginning construction in the next month No envelope measuresPartial electrification - keeping boilers, maybe putting heat pumps (bright power is unsure)  2nd is in HVAC system selection - have energy modeling results and iterative analysis Working on completely electrifying Suggested some envelope measures (providing insulation) - trying to push continuous insulation (not yet approved), not going to be spray foam Considering chosing a difference case study for a project that is in construction (MF HR - 6 stories) Partial electrification  Speakers have not been decided yetAmritha Rajan - Brightpower Hoping to have the design team (architect or the owner, Property Resources Corp, Settlement Housing Fund Potentially)  

Diversity and Inclusiveness
The owners of these buildings were not only interested in energy usage, but they were deeply concerned about maintaining rent and utility affordability for residents.
Learning Objectives
Learn about creative ways to design high performance retrofits
Understand how to holistically evaluate the impact of different measures (cost, carbon, comfort, operation)
Create collaborative environments when working with a team
Identify opportunities to partner with manufacturers and government agencies to address technology and cost gaps in the industry
Has this session been presented before?
No

NYC 2022 Areas of Focus

Session Format
Lightning Round (several brief idea pitches followed by discussion)

Strongest Content Connection - NYC 2022

Comments about your speaker roster
There are several other speakers that we have not confirmed yet. We will be soliciting speakers from MAP Architects, Settlement Housing Fund, and NYCHA. Amritha from Bright Power will present the details and moderate the panel.
Reviewer 1
Grant, Tristan
Reviewer 2
McGovern, Leah
Proposal #
140
Committee Decision
Being Considered

Presenters