| In May of 2004 I was hired by the University of Colorado Environmental Center to investigate measures that could reduce the energy consumption of the three student run buildings on campus: the Health Center (Wardenburg), the University Memorial Center (UMC) and the University Recreational Center. As part of my work, energy audits and occupancy comfort surveys were carried out, and at times, detailed energy modeling used to predict potential savings from the recommended measures. In evaluating whether my models corresponded to a target value, be it from a benchmarking tool such as the database developed by the Department of Energy Information Administration (EIA) or a standard building code, such as ASHRAE 90.1, I found that Recreational Facilities lacked such references. In the EIA database, these buildings were classified within the same category as theaters and funeral homes, which raised some concerns as to whether validating my model against such benchmarking was an appropriate measure to take. I realized that the benchmarking of Recreational Facilities would be a valuable tool not only for the University, but to any engineer needing a reference on energy consumption of this type of buildings.;Energy auditing, energy modeling as well as normalization of utility data was applied in this benchmarking process.;The findings were somewhat surprising, with large electric consumptions towards pool pumps and lighting, as well as fan operation. Fuel, although predictable, could be broken down into specific end-uses, at nearly 15% towards domestic hot water, 45% swimming pool heating and the remaining used for space heating loads.;A benchmark value for all energy end-uses has been created, so that an energy model of new recreational facilities can be done, and that base-case used to establish accurate energy conservation targets.;The measures offered at the end of this research are intended to be applied to all facilities and to raise some awareness in regards to actual benefits from the different systems. Pool blankets and heating water systems' efficiency were investigated and found to be strong candidates at practically any facility. |
