Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Energy Efficiency and Benchmarking

• Understand energy efficiency principles and their impact on cost savings and sustainability.
• Learn the role of energy benchmarking in performance improvement.
• Identify key energy-consuming sectors:
• Industrial (manufacturing, refineries, cement, etc.)
• Commercial buildings (offices, malls, hospitals, data centers)
• Public infrastructure (water treatment, transportation, utilities)

2. Energy Performance Metrics and Benchmarking Indicators

• Define and calculate key energy performance indicators (EPIs):
• Energy Use Intensity (EUI)
• Specific Energy Consumption (SEC)
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
• Coefficient of Performance (COP) for HVAC systems
• Carbon footprint and sustainability metrics
• Understand normalized energy benchmarking (weather, occupancy, production output adjustments).

3. Benchmarking Methods and Data Collection

• Learn internal vs. external benchmarking approaches:
• Internal Benchmarking (tracking a facility's performance over time).
• External Benchmarking (comparison with industry peers or standards).
• Conduct data collection and analysis for energy audits.
• Understand the use of smart meters and IoT-based energy monitoring.

4. Benchmarking Tools and Standards

• Explore benchmarking tools such as:
• ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
• ISO 50001 Energy Management System
• ASHRAE Energy Audit Guidelines
• Global Industrial Energy Efficiency Benchmarks (IEA, DOE, IPMVP)
• Interpret national and international energy efficiency benchmarks.

5. Energy Efficiency Opportunities and Best Practices

• Identify common energy-saving measures:
• Lighting upgrades (LED, occupancy sensors)
• HVAC optimization (VFDs, insulation, maintenance practices)
• Industrial process improvements (heat recovery, compressed air optimization)
• Renewable energy integration and power factor correction
• Learn about demand-side management and load optimization strategies.

6. Reporting and Continuous Improvement Strategies

• Develop energy performance reports and dashboards.
• Set up continuous energy monitoring and benchmarking programs.
• Implement measurement and verification (M&V) processes for tracking improvements.

7. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world energy benchmarking success stories.
• Participate in hands-on exercises using benchmarking tools.
• Develop a customized energy efficiency benchmarking plan for a facility.

Target Audience

• Energy managers and sustainability professionals
• Facility and operations engineers
• Industrial and commercial building managers
• Utility and regulatory professionals
• Environmental compliance officers