Retrotec USACE - Manual (Page 94)

72 ENERGY & PROCESS ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
If detailed energy consumption data is not available, it is possible to iden-
tify and analyze potential wastes and ineffi ciencies (represented by arrows in
Figures 21 and 22) and select corresponding sets of ECM. Experienced audi-
tors might recommend how to rank and quantify application of these ECM.
These diagrams provide an overall view of sources of waste and ineffi ciency.
Heat is given off by equipment in the power house. Heat is lost in the distribu-
tion systems that deliver tempered fl uids to systems that require them. Waste
is defi ned as use of excess energy due to a system or piece of equipment not
performing up to its capabilities. This can be caused by poor maintenance,
improper operation, and/or a need to replace a worn out element. Ineffi cient
equipment can also lead to excessive energy use. The effi ciency of the boil-
ers results in excess energy in the fl ue gases and blowdown water. Effi ciency
improvements can be accomplished by investments that add additional or new
components to a system. These investments must be cost-effective, thus it may
not be wise to pay more for highly effi cient equipment that is seldom used.
The energy fl ow into individual systems can also be illustrated by a Sankey
diagram. Two of these diagrams can be found on the preceding page of this
section (Figures 21 and 22). Systems presented in this manner are building
envelope, HVAC, lighting, painting processes, and other processes.
1.3.1 Building Considerations
Buildings house the processes that the organization needs to carry out its goals,
the people in the organization, and all the organization’s assets. The building
must protect the people and processes from the outdoor environment and have
a well-insulated and reasonably airtight building structure. Windows placed in
the building allow sunlight to enter, which aids the heating system but detracts
from the cooling system performance. These windows also allow natural light
to enter, which reduces the need for electrically powered lighting.
Common building envelope problems (Table 1) are
Poorly insulated roof, walls, large doors, or single-pane windows ■
Drafts through cracks in building envelope ■
Excessive solar gains through the roof and glazing ■
Large unprotected apertures (e.g., doors) left open for traffi c coming in ■
and out of the building
Unprotected entrance doors connected to the air-conditioned spaces, kept
■
open with human traffi c entering the building before and after shifts
These problems result in energy waste for heating, cooling and humidity
control. They may also contribute to potential health hazards and discomfort
in winter due to drafts and low temperature. Other concerns are indoor air
quality issues, reduced productivity as the result of low or high working space
temperature, and possible damage to the building caused by water intrusion in
building structures that may create mold and mildew problems. For a listing of
possible wastes and ineffi ciencies refer to Table 1.