Monitoring-Based Commissioning for University Campuses: Barriers to Adoption.
Ledewitz, Julia.
2013
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Abstract: Abstract In this thesis I explore the barriers that limit
universities from implementing the practice of Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx), a
process that reduces energy, improves interior space comfort, and extends the working life
of building systems and equipment. University campuses are ideal candidates for
Monitoring-Based Commissioning because the process analyzes existing ... read morebuildings for
inefficiencies in building systems and equipment, and campuses tend to have complex systems
and demanding schedules. In addition, these building systems and equipment have a
significant energy impact on the large and high-occupancy buildings, which predominate
college campuses. Practices such as Monitoring-Based Commissioning, which can reduce
building energy consumption from 10-30%, can help schools across the world change the
trajectory of building energy use. However, in this thesis I also study the reasons
campuses have been slow to implement this process, despite evidence showing the energy
reduction potential of MBCx. Surveys of 28 colleges and universities and information
gathered in interviews highlight some of the barriers faced by schools. These indicate four
dominant barriers preventing campuses from implementing Monitoring-Based Commissioning: 1.
Low level of Campus Interest and Awareness 2. Minimal Technical Knowledge 3. Misallocated
Staff 4. Low Priority for Funding Through understanding the obstacles for campus
implementation, Universities, MBCx firms, municipalities and multi-building owners will be
better able and prepared to implement MBCx in the near future in order to address climate
concerns and energy constraints that affect campuses daily.
Thesis (M.A.)--Tufts University, 2013.
Submitted to the Dept. of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning.
Advisor: Justin Hollander.
Committee: Lois Stanley.
Keywords: Energy, Engineering, and Sustainability.read less - ID:
- gf06gf387
- Component ID:
- tufts:21943
- To Cite:
- TARC Citation Guide EndNote
