Opening of Proposals - WWTP Solar Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract Proj. No. 124-015 - Ameresco

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13 Energy Solutions For Every Need City of South Bend, IN RFQ Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract Department of Public Works simulation to determine both the baseline and post retrofit energy consumption. For measures where the cost to perform measurements would exceed the anticipated energy savings, agreed-upon savings can be utilized. When selecting the specific methods to be used in the final measurement and verification plan, variables that drive energy usage must first be identified. These specific energy use drivers are identified through engineering analysis and/or calibrated computer modeling. Sensitivity analysis is performed on variables to assign weighting criteria to each; this allows the magnitude of the impact resulting from each to be approximately quantified. With this information, the appropriate M&V Option is selected. Multiple options may be used on a single project since each Energy Conservation Measure (ECM) will require varying degrees of analysis to quantify the energy savings. Factors that guide the selection of an M&V option for an individual ECM include, the cost of measurement versus the savings being measured (also includes the project cost), the likelihood of sustainable savings from the ECM, the likelihood of future construction or renovation work at the facility, the complexity of ECMs to be installed, the level of interaction between ECMs, and the degree of sub-metering within the facility. Due to the variables and dynamics that are unique to each energy savings project, and often to each facility within a project, an individual M&V plan must be developed for each situation. Ameresco works in close collaboration with each customer to develop an M&V plan that provides for accurate savings verification in a cost-effective manner. For this project, retrofit isolation is the most likely M&V methodology. Savings Adjustments | Equipment and Operational Changes During project development, Ameresco spends time working closely with our customers to assess their needs and understand how their facilities are operating. Through this effort, operational parameters such as occupancy levels throughout the year, equipment settings, operating hours, etc. can be used to develop an accurate understanding of how energy is consumed in the facility. The intended goal of this process is to include accurate variables in our calculation assumptions to ensure they match the intended use of the facility. Both Ameresco and the City of South Bend will share responsibility in identifying changes in the operation of the facility and/or individual systems during the performance period. Ameresco will monitor key parameters and perform site visits as required per the final M&V plan. If, during the course of these actions, Ameresco identifies operations or changes to the buildings or systems that would result in an impact to the savings, Ameresco will notify the City of South Bend accordingly, as outlined in the final contract. The City of South Bend should notify Ameresco when material changes occur within the facility and provide additional information, if required, to quantify the energy savings impact, including, but not limited to, equipment submittals, building plans, and dates that the changes occurred. Some typical situations that can impact the energy savings estimates include renovations/additions to the facility; a new energy load on an existing utility or HVAC service; renovations/modifications of facilities on an existing utility or HVAC service; abandonment of a portion of the facility on an existing utility or HVAC service; and changes in building usage, occupancy hours, calendar, or set points.