Engineering

At GreenerU, decarbonization engineering starts with the building you have, not a one-size-fits-all technology answer. Using zero over time principles, our approach is to reduce energy demand first, reuse valuable existing systems where it makes sense, recover waste energy where possible, and electrify strategically over time. That means designing practical, low-carbon systems that align with building needs, occupant priorities, and long-term capital plans.

Decarbonization readiness assessments

To get started on a decarbonization journey, it often helps to get an assessment of your building or institution’s readiness for implementation of a decarbonization project. GreenerU’s engineering team makes site visits to review building systems, conditions, and opportunities to switch from fossil fuels to clean power.

• • Read more about our Zero Over Time building decarbonization assessments
  • Did you know? GreenerU develops ZOT plans for the City of Boston’s Building Decarbonization Advisor Program

ASHRAE energy audits

GreenerU performs ASHRAE Level II energy audits that can identify energy-saving opportunities, recommend ways to improve energy efficiency, and lower energy bills. These detailed assessments include an inventory of existing energy systems, analysis of utility data and benchmarking, and development of potential conservation measures.

• • Read our insights and reflections from ASHRAE’s decarbonization conference
  • Read about ASHRAE’s top 30 energy-saving design measures

Feasibility studies

Feasibility studies involve a preliminary evaluation of building needs and potential solutions or designs. Projects can include reducing energy or emissions, decarbonization and electrification, renewal of aging assets, or modifications to systems based on changing building needs. Feasibility provides basic design concepts, project budgeting and planning information, and a basis of design.

• • Learn how GreenerU evaluates geothermal retrofits through feasibility, system reuse, lifecycle analysis, and implementation planning
  • Converting buildings to high-efficiency energy systems can require a light touch

Design and preconstruction

GreenerU provides design services for your HVAC energy projects, turning initial concepts into engineered solutions. In this phase of development, key design parameters are defined, allowing for preconstruction planning of project budget, schedule, and other construction coordination. GreenerU provides the right level of information at the right time, to help make your project a success.

• • Learn about GreenerU’s innovative design for an award-winning Boston heat recovery project

Energy and emissions financial modeling

GreenerU’s lifecycle cost model (LCC model) helps analyze investment scenarios for energy and decarbonization projects, by calculating the net present value (NPV) of different options compared with a reference case. Our model includes project parameters as inputs, which can be adjusted based on project conditions, scenario modeling, sensitivity analysis, and other factors. These allow the owner and project team to make an informed investment decision in any energy project.

Contact us to talk about how our engineering team can help your institution prepare for building decarbonization.