Lecture Notes: Energy Efficiency Analysis and Performance Optimization with RETScreen

Introduction

• Presenter: Miranda Wright, Education and Engagement Manager, Illinois Green
• Date: Not specified
• Format: Virtual and in-person
• Weather: Snowy day
• Platform: Zoom
• Purpose: Discuss energy efficiency, performance optimization using RETScreen software
• Illinois Green Alliance:
  • A nonprofit organization promoting green buildings and sustainable communities
  • Focus on educational events and advocacy for green policies

RETScreen Overview

• Presented by: Hardik Miani and Htin Charet, Bowman Consulting
• Offices: Chicago, Washington DC, Frankfurt
• Software: Renewable Energy Technology Screen (RETScreen)
• Development: By Natural Resources Canada
• Purpose: For energy efficiency, renewable energy, co-generation feasibility analysis
• Global Use: Available in 38 languages, covers 2/3rds of the world's population
• Applications:
  • Virtual energy analysis
  • Benchmarking
  • Feasibility and performance analysis
  • Portfolio analysis

Key Features of RETScreen

• Analysis Capabilities:
  • Energy performance comparison
  • Feasibility and cost analysis
  • GHG emission reduction estimates
• Simulation Based: Uses NASA data for weather and energy simulations
• Limitations:
  • Degree day simulation model
  • Does not account for latent loads
  • Does not specify operation times or correct for power factors

RETScreen Use Cases

• Industry Applications: Power plants, industrial, commercial, institutional, residential, and transportation sectors
• Project Phases:
  • Minimize usage
  • Maximize efficiency
  • Implement renewable technologies for Net Zero

Hands-On RETScreen Training

• Setup: Define facility type, location, and benchmark data
• Benchmarking: Compare energy use to similar facilities globally
• Lighting Retrofit: Analyze savings from upgrading to LED
• HVAC Systems: Control upgrades and energy impact
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Financial analysis for pump systems
• Building Envelope: Analyze savings from different insulation upgrades

Case Studies

• Multifamily Property:
  • Transition from natural gas boiler to air-source heat pumps
  • Domestic hot water system replacement
• Office Renovation:
  • Lighting retrofit from fluorescent to LED
  • Window replacement for improved thermal efficiency

Interactive Effects

• Consideration: How different measures impact each other
• Importance: Total savings calculation needs to account for these effects

Conclusion

• Software Utility: RETScreen helps in comprehensive energy and financial analysis
• Advice: Engage with archetypes and virtual models to understand potential savings
• Contact for Queries: Presenters and Illinois Green available for support

Reminder

• Weather Advisory: Be cautious due to storm conditions

Note: RETScreen is a versatile tool for energy audits, allowing detailed analysis and benchmarking for projects globally. It helps organizations make informed decisions on energy efficiency measures and assess the financial and environmental impact of their projects.