Thursday, May 1, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Opening Plenary Session
- Opening Plenary Session
Preliminary Technical Program
Final program will be released in early January.
Attendees earn AIA LU, USGBC LEED General Education, CxA and EMP continuing education credits for presentations.
- 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Meet & Greet with Sponsors & Exhibitors - Expo Hall
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Distributed Generation, Energy Storage and Interoperability Vehicle to Grid (V2G) Technology and Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Systems Cx
Mark Siira, IEEE Standards Committee 21Wayne Stec, IEEE Standards Committee 21
Electric vehicle fast-charging plazas are complexes integrating a wide variety of digital technologies and hardware/software, as well as grid interfaces requiring significant operational coordination. These plazas need sophisticated energy management systems to make a seamless and safe interconnection to the electric grid. This presentation will delve into technical design development and commissioning process details of this emerging mainstream public technology.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the concept and value of emerging V2G technology.
• Discover interface details required between charging plaza equipment and the general control guidelines.
• Review guidelines for successful installation and commissioning.
• Understand the concept of bi-directional charging and its impact on the grid.
• Provide general guidance for successful design, installation, operation and maintenance of EV charging plazas.
• Learn what is required to accomplish user-friendly EV charging station operation.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Leveraging Technology for Efficient Data Collection in Energy Audits
Hardik Miyani, P.E., CEM, CPHC, CRE, LEED GA, Baumann ConsultingJacob Terry, CxAlloy
This session explores how CxAlloy streamlines data collection during energy audits, improving accuracy and efficiency. Attendees will learn how this commissioning and project management tool centralizes data, enhances collaboration, and ensures accurate documentation. Real-world case studies will highlight its impact on audit processes, providing practical strategies for optimizing energy audits.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the functionalities of CxAlloy and how it supports data collection during energy audits.
- Apply best practices for utilizing CxAlloy to improve communication and collaboration among audit teams.
- Analyze case studies that demonstrate the successful integration of CxAlloy into energy audit processes, resulting in improved project outcomes.
- Develop strategies to incorporate CxAlloy into their own auditing practices to increase efficiency and accuracy in data management.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
The Essential Role of Commissioning in Complex Technology Systems
Noelle Thornton, P.E., CxA, BCxP, CannonDesignBrett Farbstein, LEED AP, CEM, CBCP, EBCP, CannonDesign
Commissioning technology systems is an important and often overlooked process. It is not mandated in any codes or standards. However, many buildings have complicated systems that can benefit from the commissioning process. In this presentation, we will discuss commissioning of audio / visual Systems, public address systems, and access control systems, as well as when commissioning may be an important service.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the value of commissioning technology systems.
- Understand the process for commissioning various technology systems.
- Evaluate additional technology options for specific building types.
- Recognize common problems in technology systems that have not been commissioned.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Sustainable Design + High-Performance Commissioning = Zero at the Meter (Achieving True Net Zero)
Charles Jackson, P.E., CxA, PMP, CEM, LEED AP, CMTABrian Atkinson, CxA, Well AP, Sustainable Building Partners
It takes the entire project team to truly achieve net zero for a facility and to meet the widely accepted and brand new Zero Emissions Standard developed by the Department of Energy and ASHRAE. This presentation will highlight successful examples of net zero realization and the challenges encountered along the way.
Learning Objectives
- Learn the importance of focusing on sustainable design, with an emphasis on energy modeling and targeted EUI
- Explore the challenges of pursuing Net Zero and how a well-designed building does not always operate as expected
- Understand high-performance commissioning and what it takes to get to Net Zero/Zero Emissions
- Assess and refine strategies for post-occupancy performance
Case Study: Mission-Critical Cx – Streamlining Airport Projects with Visual Cx Tools
Thomas Jarloev, CxPlanner
Copenhagen Airports previously managed projects with Excel sheets, leading to issues and delays. A new commissioning process was developed to improve projects and quality. This Cx process now supports over 100 projects per year, valued at over $150M, using digital tools like Gantt charts and Kanban boards. This presentation shows how these tools are used and how they enhance collaboration.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to use tables, floor plans, Gantt charts, and Kanban boards to make Cx activities more transparent and actionable.
- Explore how to incorporate design reviews into every phase of a project, improving accuracy and efficiency with modern tools.
- Understand how Cx activities can be embedded into Gantt charts to document progress and ensure adequate time is allocated for commissioning.
- Summarize how to secure buy-in from contractors and stakeholders to ensure adoption of the commissioning process.
- 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Collaboration Through the TAB Process
Alvin Beddingfield, Jr., TBE, Engineered Air Balance Co., Inc.
An informational session to focus on the obstacles encountered during the construction and TAB process of a visual performance art center and administration building. We will discuss challenges associated with the TAB process on a non-typical building designed with numerous elevation changes and specialty finishes. I will highlight the strategies we employed to overcome them.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the challenges associated with performing TAB services on a visual performance arts center or administration building.
- Examine the importance of collaborating with the general contractor, owner, design team, and subcontractors in a lesson-learned format for participants on future projects.
- Understand the importance of site visit observations to determine the readiness of finishes and to identify potential issues that will impact the TAB Process and project schedule.
- Gain an understanding of the TAB measurement process on a non-typical building and methods used to provide proper data collection.
- 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Unleashing the Power of Resilient Retrofits
Stevan Vinci, CET, LEED Fellow, LFA, BECxP, CxA+BE, GlumacJamie McKay, P.E., BECxP, LEED Fellow, Glumac
- Commissioning
Dive into the high-performance building revolution with us as we untap the potential of existing buildings. These structures, often overlooked in the new construction race for energy efficiency, hold the key to reducing our carbon footprint. Whether you are pursuing a building certification or planning a deep energy retrofit, our session will equip you with a holistic approach to asset renewal.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of existing buildings and gain a deep understanding of the role existing buildings play in our urban landscapes and their potential for reducing our carbon footprint.
- Get acquainted with the latest industry standards like PHIUS REVIVE, and LEED v5 Operations and Maintenance that are shaping the future of building performance.
- Learn about the shift from mechanical efficiency to passive strategies, leading to passive survivability and greater resilience.
- Recognize the impact of building envelope and discover how building envelope improvements can significantly influence a building’s energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and overall performance.
- 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Training 101: The Basics for Establishing a Project's Training Program
John Anthony Hitsos, P.E., CxA, Jacobs
To ensure a new facility’s equipment is properly operated, utilized, and maintained, an organized and well-planned training program is required. Although a primary function of the contractor and vendor, it often falls to the CxA to establish, monitor, and document the training program. Creating a training program begins with design specs and follows through test and documentation completion.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the basics involved with setting up a Project Training Program.
- Understand what training info to include in Project Specifications and the Cx Plan.
- Define and obtain training agendas that meet project-specific requirements.
- Determine when to schedule training.
- Evaluate whether a training program has been delivered successfully.
- 12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. Lunch in Expo Hall
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Who Is My Client and Where Does My Responsibility Land? Ethical Dilemmas For Commissioning Providers
Chris S. Smith, P.E., CxA, EMP, LEED AP, GGP, JacobsBill Hardiman, P.E., CxA, Jacobs
- Commissioning
The commissioning process can be applied to many types of projects and is often contracted through a variety of methods. Commissioning providers are called upon to navigate multiple, and often complicated, relationships. While navigating projects, the commissioning provider can be faced with difficult situations that call into question the path they should take in executing their duties.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the ethical responsibility of the commissioning provider under various contracting relationships.
- Understand the ethical responsibility of the commissioning provider related to value engineering and resolution of corrective issues.
- Identify how ethics can impact communications between members of the commissioning team.
- Understand the difference between owners and end users and the ethical responsibilities and conflicts that can arise with differing interests.
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Building Decarbonization: Key Issues and Solutions for Occupancy, Wellness and Sustainability
Al LaPera, CxA, EMP, LEED AP, Kimley Horn AssociatesSarah Maston, Colliers Project LeadersStacy Smedley, Building Transparency
As the climate change impacts of building construction and operation become clearer and clearer, building designers, architects, and engineers need to take immediate action. Sustainable buildings are crucial to our future. The understanding of the carbon content of what makes up buildings, both embodied and operational, is essential. There are numerous decisions that must be made in the process of visioning and designing a building to reduce carbon content, especially the embodied carbon. This course covers the key issues of decarbonizing the building, as well as specific steps to be taken to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from the building industry. The discussion will include recent research on buildings and embodied carbon, focusing on increasing sustainability. Presenters will demonstrate how engineers, architects, and owners can leverage their roles and the available tools to reduce the EC content of their buildings. Includes options for embodied carbon reduction and contributions of Architecture 2030 and the SE 2050 challenge.
Learning Objectives:
- Define what “decarbonizing” a building project means, including explaining key terms such as “embodied carbon” and “net zero carbon”.
- Use key approaches in building design, material selection and specification to reduce the embodied carbon in the building envelope and structure. Also explain the available embodied carbon tools.
- Employ beneficial electrification to reduce buildings’ operational carbon dioxide emissions.
- Design to meet building performance standards as more local jurisdictions adopt these practices to meet community greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
DOE’s Existing Building Commissioning Catalyzer: Lessons Learned from the Front Lines of Building Performance Standards (BPS) Policies
Joshua Kace, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
- Commissioning
- Technology
The DOE’s EBCx Catalyzer has been working with jurisdictions, building owners, utilities, and commissioning providers to position EBCx as the first line of defense towards Building Performance Standards (BPS) compliance and success. This session will talk through efforts across the U.S. where the EBCx Catalyzer looks to drive increased commissioning activities in support of ongoing building energy.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the basics of BPS policies and variations that exist across the country.
- Understand how to take advantage of EBCx market opportunities created by BPS implementation.
- Show how commissioning can adapt to the specifics of BPS policies to maximize success for owners and providers.
- Learn how to talk to building owners about what commissioning can and can’t do with regards to managing BPS compliance.
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Building Owner Commissioning Process (BOCx)
James Magee, CxA, EMP, MACx Consulting
No singular solution meets the needs of every or even any building owner. Our quest to demystify the vagaries of building systems Cx begins with organizing and consolidating references to meet the specific high-speed daily schedules if our clients. Building Owner Cx presents a plan to provide lasting owner and owner vendor roles and responsibilities understanding.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the resources available through the ACG Building Systems Commissioning Guideline and its source references from ASHRAE.
- Learn about the ASHRAE commissioning process appendix and other online resources.
- Develop owner perspective tools to support roles and responsibilities training.
- Apply ACG-ASHRAE resources to continuing education of clients and their vendors to avoid redundancy and enhance the value of single project and portfolio customer Cx interactions.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Creative BECx Protocols, Mock-up Testing, and Examples of Some Lessons Learned
Stephen Seller, P.Eng., EIT, BECxP+BE, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyJeffrey Ng, AIA, LEED AP, Intertek
- Commissioning
This course will present BECx lessons learned from projects, as well as a discussion of mock-up testing. It will cover an interesting unconventional test method for one of a kind components and samples of unique test strategies developed to confirm BECx components when field conflicts occur. Mock-up testing is an invaluable tool that we use to allow onsite pre-testing before components are installed on the main buildings.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover examples of how both large and sometimes simple issues can save a huge amount of hardship.
- Identify how BECx can be adapted to confirm the performance of unique systems or situations.
- Understand how BE mockups are critical to the final building.
- Learn how to work with BECxPs to understand objectives, test protocols and finally developing proper testing requirements for one of a kind projects.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Cracking the Code: Tackling the Toughest Challenges in HVAC Flow Measurement
Al LaPera, CxA, EMP, LEED AP, Kimley Horn AssociatesEugene Sollog, ONICON
Flow measurement is crucial for optimizing HVAC systems, but industry experts often encounter challenges that can impede efficiency and performance. This panel discussion aims to take a deep dive into the most common problems faced by professionals in the field, share valuable insights into overcoming these obstacles, and provide practical solutions and strategies for improving flow measurement practices in HVAC systems. Drawing on real-world experiences and case studies, our panel of seasoned experts will tackle key issues such as:
Learning Objectives:
• Identifying the right flow meter and technology for the application and explaining issues that can arise from poor selection.
• Common integration difficulties and solutions including straight run limitations, retrofitting, and identifying ideal placement for flow measurement devices.
• Accuracy and calibration – common pitfalls in achieving precise measurements and the impact of calibration errors on system performance.
• Lessons learned based on real-world applications and conditions will be discussed.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Commissioning Charlotte's First All-Electric Firehouse: Charlotte Firehouse No. 30
Wally Ray, P.E., LEED AP, TLC Engineering Solutions
Will Page, TLC Engineering Solutions
Heather Bolick, City of Charlotte
Andrew Shuster, BPL Enclosure
TLC Engineering Solutions and BPL Enclosures are providing design review and commissioning of a new two-story firehouse. Scheduled for April 2025 completion, this firehouse will be a LEED-certified space and is among the first all-electric, zero carbon facilities for the City of Charlotte.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the goals behind Charlotte’s first all-electric fire station and how those goals relate to the city’s electrification and decarbonization goals.
- Plan for the challenges and opportunities related to commissioning an all-electric building.
- Understand how building envelope commissioning ties into overall building performance and the overall commissioning process.
- Understand the impact of LEED certification in the design and commissioning approach.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Leveraging “Golden Opportunities” – UGA Energy Utility Master Planning Case Study
Jason Perry, CEM, University of Georgia
Ben Dombrowski, Jacobs
This presentation will explore a unique opportunity at the University of Georgia and the “golden opportunities” at the alignment of campus goals. We will look at conditions that drove scenario creation, how nexus points were identified, and the creation of an actionable roadmap to modernize the campus thermal utility infrastructure.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of thorough stakeholder engagement.
- Think differently about untapped resources.
- Appreciate the scale and complexity of such an undertaking.
- Understand the broad range of factors required to evaluate viability of future scenarios.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
A Proactive Approach to Functional Testing: The Power of PVTs
Alex Kozinets, Facility Grid
Stephen Seller, P.Eng., EIT, BECxP+BE, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Discover the power of pre-verification tests (PVTs) in preventing common pitfalls and ensuring project success. PVTs align teams, buy scope, and reduce finger-pointing by verifying system readiness before functional testing. Hear real-world stories from MIT on how PVTs catch issues early, preventing costly rework and failed tests. Join us to discuss how PVTs are transforming construction.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the role of pre-verification tests (PVTs) and how they differ from functional tests.
- Learn how PVTs can help prevent common issues that lead to failed tests and costly rework.
- Discover how PVTs help align teams, clarify scope, and eliminate finger-pointing on construction projects.
- Hear real-world insights on the impact of PVTs from a client’s perspective.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Charlotte Airport Expansion Commissioning: Cx Between Flights
Wade Conlan, P.E., CxA, LEED AP, Hanson Professional Services
Christa Barsanti, EI, Hanson Professional Services
Commissioning expansion projects can be difficult to work around the operations of an existing facility, which only gets heightened when the facility is an active airport and the project is a 190,000 square foot expansion of an existing terminal. This session will discuss the scheduling issues for testing certain systems, such as emergency power, baggage handling, and air handling units.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the impact of the active airport security on testing schedule and process.
- Understand the process for testing baggage handling systems.
- Understand the impact of the Cx tasks scheduling for an active airport.
- Understand functional performance testing of unique systems for airports.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
North Carolina's Implementation of Carbon Reduction Goals at the NC Utilities Commission
Ethan Blumenthal, North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association
Hannah Elliott, Renu
Energy Solutions
This presentation will discuss the ongoing implementation of House Bill 951 and its carbon reduction mandates for the electricity sector, along with various customer programs currently offered by Duke Energy.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the key decarbonization updates happening before the NCUC.
- Learn about DSM/EE program updates and new programs being developed
- Understand the role the NCUC plays in building decarbonization efforts.
- Learn more about existing obstacles to decarbonization in the long run
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Importance of AI in the Utility and Facility Management Industries
Robert Knoedler, P.E., CxA, EMP, Hanson Professional Services
Kevin Scarborough
P.E., CEM, LEED AP, Siemens Smart Infrastructure
The world’s appetite for energy continues to grow with estimates of a 60% increase above current demands by 2050. Driven by governments’ push toward electrification, the transition to renewable energy must accelerate to have any hope in reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GGE) in line with global decarbonization goals. This transition will require an evolution in the electrical utility industry, requiring management of many more distributed energy assets (DER), involving variable generation and storage. Concurrently, with buildings and facilities accounting for approximately 40% of energy consumption, concerted efforts will be required to reduce demand and increase efficiency. Enter artificial intelligence (AI) and its ability to collect, collate, and analyze massive amounts of data. The panel will discuss the various ways AI is being employed to assist utilities and facility managers to improve grid performance and ensure optimum performance of facility systems.
Learning Objectives:
- How AI is being employed in the utility industry to help manage DER assets and increase resiliency and security
- The various ways AI can assist facility managers in monitoring and analyzing the multitude of data available from IoT devices and various sensors through ongoing / monitoring-based Cx, incorporating fault detection and diagnostics (FDD).
- Available offerings of AI systems and their associated application and features
- Recommendations for implementation of AI and the associated requirements regarding upskilling (training and management by FM staff).
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Case Study: Implementing automated BAS Cx in Schools and Campuses
Saheel Chandrani, PingCx
A school district facing aging infrastructure and expansion plans implemented a district-wide
Building Management System using Niagara and PingCx Autonomous Commissioning software. The solution enabled real-time testing & validation, standardized commissioning processes, and automated documentation across multiple buildings. Results showed 50% faster completion time, reduced labor costs, and comprehensive system verification, providing a smooth handover for new school construction projects.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the autonomous commissioning process designed primarily for BAS and HVAC systems to overcome current time and labor-related constraints.
- Implement and deliver Lifecycle CommissioningTM
- Create recurring revenue for CxP firms.
- Understand from case studies the successful use of these technologies in real-world applications that have improved the outcomes for the Building Owner.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Specifying Duct Leakage - Percent Leakage vs Leakage Class
Gaylon Richardson, TBE, CxA, Engineered Air Balance Council
Mike Kelly, TBE, CxA, American Testing, Inc.
Energy efficiency is a main concern for HVAC systems relating to Duct system leakage. The concerning question is how the engineer specifies duct leakage in specifications.
Learning Objectives:
- Know and understand the different standards : AABC Leakage Standards / SMACNA Seal Class A / ASHRAE 90.1 / California Uniform Mechanical Code
- Be familiar with how to decipher the allowed leakage rate when using SMACNA leakage class
- Able to do a comparison of AABC %leakage standards to System Test CFM vs Duct Section CFM (Cumulative leakage rate) utilizing actual rates.
- Be able to explain the considerations for Energy Loses & Cost.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Test, Adjust & Balance; Lessons Learned for Engineers, Cx & Energy Providers
Brian Venn, TBE, CxA, Mechanical Testing
Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) is a process utilized for heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) and related systems to optimize system performance and prove that design intent has been met. Equipment selection, improper and proper use of TAB instrumentation, system layout for testing and maintenance access, document review strategies, defining meaningful and useful TAB data, incorporating new industry product technologies, and project scheduling issues are all common challenges that a TAB provider encounters. This article offers solutions and ideas to help overcome these challenges, for the benefit of the design professional, construction team, commissioning provider and ultimately the building owner.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the proper use, application, and limitations of the TAB instrumentation.
- Understand what is accurate, useful and meaningful data that is obtained in the field vs. laboratory data for use on their project.
- Gain an understanding of HVAC systems and the TAB/measurement process; how can systems be set up to allow for proper data collection.
- Promote a project team approach to address schedule challenges, design alternatives as it relates to balancing device types/locations, equipment usage and HVAC system operation.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
With Great Power Comes Great Redundancy: Lessons Learned from Commissioning New Stuff in Existing Data Centers
Mark Gelfo, PE, CxA, EMP, LEED Fellow, TLC Engineering Solutions
Jay Martin, P.E., CxA, CEM, LEED AP BD+C, TLC Engineering Solutions
Michael Umscheid, DPR
99.99% reliability is not enough for data centers facing ever increasing demands for additional capacity, reliability, and efficiency while replacing older electrical systems with newer more reliable equipment. We will present commissioning case studies of recent data centers that replaced & added key components of their electrical infrastructure while maintaining 100% uptime.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the industry standard processes and terminology associated with data center commissioning, which are not always the same as those outlined by ASHRAE Guideline 0
- Understand and implement effective UPS testing strategies that can lead to improved reliability, reduced downtime, and optimized operational efficiency in data center environments.
- Gain insights into effective project management strategies, the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, and the future trends shaping data center power systems.
- Apply lessons learned from the case studies presented to their next commissioning project
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Case Study: Commissioning a Chip Manufacturing Plant
Derek De Jesus, CxA, Derek De Jesus, LLC
Earl Laflamme, CxA, Catalyst Commissioning
Mike Lewis, P.E., WolfSpeed
Hear from the owner and contractor Cx teams as they discuss the commissioning process for a chip manufacturing plant outside of Charlotte, NC. This project was a fast-tracked, multi-phase, DOE-funded green field site that used the IPD approach and owner-furnished/contractor-installed equipment. Presenters will discuss project challenges such as communication between owner and GC Cx teams, action-item tracking, balancing construction schedule with meeting production needs, and more, as well as lessons learned in the process.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how to effectively source and engage Quality and Cx teams in integrated project delivery.
- Understand the Quality and Cx goals in an OFE (OFCI) delivery model.
- Understand the challenges of integrated project delivery.
- Apply lessons learned in future integrated projects.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
The Challenge of Commissioning Aquatic Centers
Jared Higgins, P.E., CxA, CEM, GGP, Parkhill
Commissioning building systems is often complex, and some facilities provide greater opportunities than others. Aquatic centers contain specialized equipment that require coordination with multiple building trades. Integrating commissioning into the project is critical for project success and should be included throughout all phases of the design and construction.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the challenges and opportunities offered by aquatic centers.
- Identify the importance of having commissioning during the design phase of aquatic centers.
- Identity the importance of including commissioning during value engineering.
- Understanding how different building systems interact within an aquatic center and how to implement cross discipline approach during commissioning.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Delivering the Next Generation of Cx Services via EMIS-based Automated Functional Testing
Armando Casillas, LBNL
Energy management and information systems (EMIS) have emerged in recent years as a powerful tool for delivering enhanced building operation at scale through services such as fault detection and diagnostics (FDD), fault resolution, optimal control, and automated functional testing. The benefits include energy savings, improved occupant comfort, and more streamlined maintenance practices. For commissioning providers, EMIS-based automated functional tests are a digital tool that can facilitate more cost-effective and consistent testing, enabling more frequent and comprehensive evaluation of HVAC systems. This presentation will highlight work done by LBNL to develop and deploy automated functional performance tests, including: 1) descriptions of open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests; and 2) group tests aimed at screening for problematic equipment and individual tests for isolating the source of those problems. The talk will also present a process for combining the results of individual tests to facilitate root cause fault diagnosis, demonstrated using the FDD rule set in ASHRAE’s Guideline 36.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn about the latest EMIS technologies and understand how it can be leveraged to execute automated functional testing.
- Describe the open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests through which automated functional testing can be performed.
- Understand how ASHRAE Guideline 36 implementations can be commissioned through automated functional testing.
- Understand the benefits of automated functional testing through EMIS software.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Advanced Nuclear Reactors: An Overview of Technologies & Deployment Timelines for Cx Providers
Brian Smith, Idaho National Laboratory
Nuclear power provides almost 20% of the nation’s energy, and nearly half of the nation’s clean energy. The current fleet of 94 reactors complements a diverse array of power generating technologies in the United States, but surpasses all others in terms of capacity and reliability. Intense interest in advanced nuclear reactors is underpinned by increases in projected domestic power demands by upwards of 30% in the next decade. The US Department of Energy, with bipartisan Congressional support, is engaged in a number of activities to develop, demonstrate, and deploy advanced nuclear technologies to address a range of use cases. These include traditional grid-scale energy supply; specialized power applications for data centers, remote communities, and disaster response; and for industrial heat to facilitate petrochemical production, steelmaking, hydrogen production, and desalination. This presentation will explore the various programs supported by the federal government to partner with industry on developing advanced nuclear technologies, provide an overview of various technologies and their potential use cases, and address technical, policy, and regulatory challenges and potential solutions to achieve widespread deployments of advanced reactors.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the various federal programs that have been authorized and appropriated by the US Congress to support advanced nuclear reactor development.
- Describe the key technologies used in today’s fleet of US large scale nuclear reactors, and the types of technologies the Department of Energy’s national laboratories and private industry are developing for advanced nuclear reactors.
- Describe the various use cases industry has identified for advanced nuclear applications.
- Assess the current technical, policy, and regulatory challenges associated with widespread deployments of advanced nuclear reactors in the next decade.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Women in Industry Panel
Amy Pastor, EXP
Sarah Maston, Colliers Project Leaders
Stacy Smedley, Building Transparency
- 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Reception in Expo Hall
Thursday, May 2, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Brown Bag Lunch
Thursday, May 1, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Opening Plenary Session
- 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Meet & Greet with Sponsors & Exhibitors - Expo Hall
- 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Meet & Greet with Sponsors & Exhibitors - Expo Hall
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Leveraging Technology for Efficient Data Collection in Energy Audits
Hardik Miyani, P.E., CEM, CPHC, CRE, LEED GA, Baumann ConsultingJacob Terry, CxAlloy
This session explores how CxAlloy streamlines data collection during energy audits, improving accuracy and efficiency. Attendees will learn how this commissioning and project management tool centralizes data, enhances collaboration, and ensures accurate documentation. Real-world case studies will highlight its impact on audit processes, providing practical strategies for optimizing energy audits.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the functionalities of CxAlloy and how it supports data collection during energy audits.
- Apply best practices for utilizing CxAlloy to improve communication and collaboration among audit teams.
- Analyze case studies that demonstrate the successful integration of CxAlloy into energy audit processes, resulting in improved project outcomes.
- Develop strategies to incorporate CxAlloy into their own auditing practices to increase efficiency and accuracy in data management.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
The Essential Role of Commissioning in Complex Technology Systems
Noelle Thornton, P.E., CxA, BCxP, CannonDesignBrett Farbstein, LEED AP, CEM, CBCP, EBCP, CannonDesign
Commissioning technology systems is an important and often overlooked process. It is not mandated in any codes or standards. However, many buildings have complicated systems that can benefit from the commissioning process. In this presentation, we will discuss commissioning of audio / visual Systems, public address systems, and access control systems, as well as when commissioning may be an important service.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the value of commissioning technology systems.
- Understand the process for commissioning various technology systems.
- Evaluate additional technology options for specific building types.
- Recognize common problems in technology systems that have not been commissioned.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Sustainable Design + High-Performance Commissioning = Zero at the Meter (Achieving True Net Zero)
Charles Jackson, P.E., CxA, PMP, CEM, LEED AP, CMTABrian Atkinson, CxA, Well AP, Sustainable Building Partners
It takes the entire project team to truly achieve net zero for a facility and to meet the widely accepted and brand new Zero Emissions Standard developed by the Department of Energy and ASHRAE. This presentation will highlight successful examples of net zero realization and the challenges encountered along the way.
Learning Objectives
- Learn the importance of focusing on sustainable design, with an emphasis on energy modeling and targeted EUI
- Explore the challenges of pursuing Net Zero and how a well-designed building does not always operate as expected
- Understand high-performance commissioning and what it takes to get to Net Zero/Zero Emissions
- Assess and refine strategies for post-occupancy performance
Case Study: Mission-Critical Cx – Streamlining Airport Projects with Visual Cx Tools
Thomas Jarloev, CxPlanner
Copenhagen Airports previously managed projects with Excel sheets, leading to issues and delays. A new commissioning process was developed to improve projects and quality. This Cx process now supports over 100 projects per year, valued at over $150M, using digital tools like Gantt charts and Kanban boards. This presentation shows how these tools are used and how they enhance collaboration.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to use tables, floor plans, Gantt charts, and Kanban boards to make Cx activities more transparent and actionable.
- Explore how to incorporate design reviews into every phase of a project, improving accuracy and efficiency with modern tools.
- Understand how Cx activities can be embedded into Gantt charts to document progress and ensure adequate time is allocated for commissioning.
- Summarize how to secure buy-in from contractors and stakeholders to ensure adoption of the commissioning process.
- 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Unleashing the Power of Resilient Retrofits
Stevan Vinci, CET, LEED Fellow, LFA, BECxP, CxA+BE, GlumacJamie McKay, P.E., BECxP, LEED Fellow, Glumac
- Commissioning
Dive into the high-performance building revolution with us as we untap the potential of existing buildings. These structures, often overlooked in the new construction race for energy efficiency, hold the key to reducing our carbon footprint. Whether you are pursuing a building certification or planning a deep energy retrofit, our session will equip you with a holistic approach to asset renewal.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of existing buildings and gain a deep understanding of the role existing buildings play in our urban landscapes and their potential for reducing our carbon footprint.
- Get acquainted with the latest industry standards like PHIUS REVIVE, and LEED v5 Operations and Maintenance that are shaping the future of building performance.
- Learn about the shift from mechanical efficiency to passive strategies, leading to passive survivability and greater resilience.
- Recognize the impact of building envelope and discover how building envelope improvements can significantly influence a building’s energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and overall performance.
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Who Is My Client and Where Does My Responsibility Land? Ethical Dilemmas For Commissioning Providers
Chris S. Smith, P.E., CxA, EMP, LEED AP, GGP JacobsBill Hardiman, P.E., CxA, Jacobs
- Commissioning
The commissioning process can be applied to many types of projects and is often contracted through a variety of methods. Commissioning providers are called upon to navigate multiple, and often complicated, relationships. While navigating projects, the commissioning provider can be faced with difficult situations that call into question the path they should take in executing their duties.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the ethical responsibility of the commissioning provider under various contracting relationships.
- Understand the ethical responsibility of the commissioning provider related to value engineering and resolution of corrective issues.
- Identify how ethics can impact communications between members of the commissioning team.
- Understand the difference between owners and end users and the ethical responsibilities and conflicts that can arise with differing interests.
- 12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. Lunch in Expo Hall
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
DOE’s Existing Building Commissioning Catalyzer: Lessons Learned from the Front Lines of Building Performance Standards (BPS) Policies
Joshua Kace, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
- Commissioning
- Technology
The DOE’s EBCx Catalyzer has been working with jurisdictions, building owners, utilities, and commissioning providers to position EBCx as the first line of defense towards Building Performance Standards (BPS) compliance and success. This session will talk through efforts across the U.S. where the EBCx Catalyzer looks to drive increased commissioning activities in support of ongoing building energy.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the basics of BPS policies and variations that exist across the country.
- Understand how to take advantage of EBCx market opportunities created by BPS implementation.
- Show how commissioning can adapt to the specifics of BPS policies to maximize success for owners and providers.
- Learn how to talk to building owners about what commissioning can and can’t do with regards to managing BPS compliance.
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Building Owner Commissioning Process (BOCx)
James Magee, CxA, EMP, MACx Consulting
No singular solution meets the needs of every or even any building owner. Our quest to demystify the vagaries of building systems Cx begins with organizing and consolidating references to meet the specific high-speed daily schedules if our clients. Building Owner Cx presents a plan to provide lasting owner and owner vendor roles and responsibilities understanding.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the resources available through the ACG Building Systems Commissioning Guideline and its source references from ASHRAE.
- Learn about the ASHRAE commissioning process appendix and other online resources.
- Develop owner perspective tools to support roles and responsibilities training.
- Apply ACG-ASHRAE resources to continuing education of clients and their vendors to avoid redundancy and enhance the value of single project and portfolio customer Cx interactions.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Creative BECx Protocols, Mock-up Testing, and Examples of Some Lessons Learned
Stephen Seller, P.Eng., EIT, BECxP+BE, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Jeffrey Ng, AIA, LEED AP, Intertek
- Commissioning
This course will present BECx lessons learned from projects, as well as a discussion of mock-up testing. It will cover an interesting unconventional test method for one of a kind components and samples of unique test strategies developed to confirm BECx components when field conflicts occur. Mock-up testing is an invaluable tool that we use to allow onsite pre-testing before components are installed on the main buildings.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover examples of how both large and sometimes simple issues can save a huge amount of hardship.
- Identify how BECx can be adapted to confirm the performance of unique systems or situations.
- Understand how BE mockups are critical to the final building.
- Learn how to work with BECxPs to understand objectives, test protocols and finally developing proper testing requirements for one of a kind projects.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Commissioning Charlotte's First All-Electric Firehouse: Charlotte Firehouse No. 30
Wally Ray, P.E., LEED AP, TLC Engineering Solutions
Will Page, TLC Engineering Solutions
Heather Bolick, City of Charlotte
Andrew Shuster, BPL Enclosure
TLC Engineering Solutions and BPL Enclosures are providing design review and commissioning of a new two-story firehouse. Scheduled for April 2025 completion, this firehouse will be a LEED-certified space and is among the first all-electric, zero carbon facilities for the City of Charlotte.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the goals behind Charlotte’s first all-electric fire station and how those goals relate to the city’s electrification and decarbonization goals.
- Plan for the challenges and opportunities related to commissioning an all-electric building.
- Understand how building envelope commissioning ties into overall building performance and the overall commissioning process.
- Understand the impact of LEED certification in the design and commissioning approach.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
A Proactive Approach to Functional Testing: The Power of PVTs
Alex Kozinets, Facility Grid
Stephen Seller, P.Eng., EIT, BECxP+BE, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Discover the power of pre-verification tests (PVTs) in preventing common pitfalls and ensuring project success. PVTs align teams, buy scope, and reduce finger-pointing by verifying system readiness before functional testing. Hear real-world stories from MIT on how PVTs catch issues early, preventing costly rework and failed tests. Join us to discuss how PVTs are transforming construction.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the role of pre-verification tests (PVTs) and how they differ from functional tests.
- Learn how PVTs can help prevent common issues that lead to failed tests and costly rework.
- Discover how PVTs help align teams, clarify scope, and eliminate finger-pointing on construction projects.
- Hear real-world insights on the impact of PVTs from a client’s perspective.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Charlotte Airport Expansion Commissioning: Cx Between Flights
Wade Conlan, P.E., CxA, LEED AP, Hanson Professional Services
Christa Barsanti, EI, Hanson Professional Services
Commissioning expansion projects can be difficult to work around the operations of an existing facility, which only gets heightened when the facility is an active airport and the project is a 190,000 square foot expansion of an existing terminal. This session will discuss the scheduling issues for testing certain systems, such as emergency power, baggage handling, and air handling units.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the impact of the active airport security on testing schedule and process.
- Understand the process for testing baggage handling systems.
- Understand the impact of the Cx tasks scheduling for an active airport.
- Understand functional performance testing of unique systems for airports.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
North Carolina's Implementation of Carbon Reduction Goals at the NC Utilities Commission
Ethan Blumenthal, North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association
Hannah Elliott, Renu
Energy Solutions
This presentation will discuss the ongoing implementation of House Bill 951 and its carbon reduction mandates for the electricity sector, along with various customer programs currently offered by Duke Energy.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the key decarbonization updates happening before the NCUC.
- Learn about DSM/EE program updates and new programs being developed
- Understand the role the NCUC plays in building decarbonization efforts.
- Learn more about existing obstacles to decarbonization in the long run
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom C
Case Study: Implementing automated BAS Cx in Schools and Campuses
Saheel Chandrani, PingCx
A school district facing aging infrastructure and expansion plans implemented a district-wide
Building Management System using Niagara and PingCx Autonomous Commissioning software. The solution enabled real-time testing & validation, standardized commissioning processes, and automated documentation across multiple buildings. Results showed 50% faster completion time, reduced labor costs, and comprehensive system verification, providing a smooth handover for new school construction projects.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the autonomous commissioning process designed primarily for BAS and HVAC systems to overcome current time and labor-related constraints.
- Implement and deliver Lifecycle CommissioningTM
- Create recurring revenue for CxP firms.
- Understand from case studies the successful use of these technologies in real-world applications that have improved the outcomes for the Building Owner.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
With Great Power Comes Great Redundancy: Lessons Learned from Commissioning New Stuff in Existing Data Centers
Mark Gelfo, PE, CxA, EMP, LEED Fellow, TLC Engineering Solutions
Jay Martin, P.E., CxA, CEM, LEED AP BD+C, TLC Engineering Solutions
Michael Umscheid, DPR
99.99% reliability is not enough for data centers facing ever increasing demands for additional capacity, reliability, and efficiency while replacing older electrical systems with newer more reliable equipment. We will present commissioning case studies of recent data centers that replaced & added key components of their electrical infrastructure while maintaining 100% uptime.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the industry standard processes and terminology associated with data center commissioning, which are not always the same as those outlined by ASHRAE Guideline 0
- Understand and implement effective UPS testing strategies that can lead to improved reliability, reduced downtime, and optimized operational efficiency in data center environments.
- Gain insights into effective project management strategies, the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, and the future trends shaping data center power systems.
- Apply lessons learned from the case studies presented to their next commissioning project
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Case Study: Commissioning a Chip Manufacturing Plant
Derek De Jesus, CxA, Derek De Jesus, LLC
Earl Laflamme, CxA, Catalyst Commissioning
Mike Lewis, P.E., WolfSpeed
Hear from the owner and contractor Cx teams as they discuss the commissioning process for a chip manufacturing plant outside of Charlotte, NC. This project was a fast-tracked, multi-phase, DOE-funded green field site that used the IPD approach and owner-furnished/contractor-installed equipment. Presenters will discuss project challenges such as communication between owner and GC Cx teams, action-item tracking, balancing construction schedule with meeting production needs, and more, as well as lessons learned in the process.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how to effectively source and engage Quality and Cx teams in integrated project delivery.
- Understand the Quality and Cx goals in an OFE (OFCI) delivery model.
- Understand the challenges of integrated project delivery.
- Apply lessons learned in future integrated projects.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
The Challenge of Commissioning Aquatic Centers
Jared Higgins, P.E., CxA, CEM, GGP, Parkhill
Commissioning building systems is often complex, and some facilities provide greater opportunities than others. Aquatic centers contain specialized equipment that require coordination with multiple building trades. Integrating commissioning into the project is critical for project success and should be included throughout all phases of the design and construction.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the challenges and opportunities offered by aquatic centers.
- Identify the importance of having commissioning during the design phase of aquatic centers.
- Identity the importance of including commissioning during value engineering.
- Understanding how different building systems interact within an aquatic center and how to implement cross discipline approach during commissioning.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
How to successfully implement the Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx) process in New and Existing Building construction.
Steve Vang, CxA, Impact Cx
Tim Gilbert, P.E., CxA, EMP, Impact Cx
Mike Lodge, Impact Cx
Monitoring Based Commissioning (MBCx) requirements are becoming more prevalent in buildings as AI workload increases, buildings are becoming more sophisticated/high tech, and 2021 IECC codes and standards are being adopted across the US in new or existing building construction. However, the MBCx process is often cumbersome as building owners, project team consultants, and commissioning agents try to incorporate the process into their projects. This presentation will focus on the overview of the MBCx process and how commissioning agents can successfully deliver the MBCx requirements in all project phases (design, construction, and occupancy) for new and existing building construction and the role that Fault Detection & Diagnostics plays in a successful MBCx program.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will better understand the overall MBCx process.
- Participants will learn to incorporate MBCx into the project documents such as: OPR, BOD, Commissioning Plan, project manuals and specifications, and bid/construction documents.
- Participants will learn the value proposition on MBCx in project cycle phases (design, construction, and occupancy).
- Participates will learn the role that Fault Detection & Diagnostics play in the MBCx process.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Maximizing Impact: How AI Frees Commissioning Providers to Focus on the Highest Value Tasks
Matthew Cooper, P.E., CxA, Group14 Engineering
Chris Purdie, Group14 Engineering
Commissioning Engineers make daily decisions on how to maximize the value we provide to a project within limited time and resources. AI allows engineers to quickly access the critical details we need to deliver value.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to utilize AI within your team to maximize the amount of time engineers spend on high-value tasks.
- Understand the challenges encountered by our team during the introduction of AI into our workflow and discover strategies to overcome or avoid them.
- Explore two case studies demonstrating AI applications in submittal review and information extraction for commissioning.
- Gain insight into the current limitations of AI in engineering contexts and how these limitations may evolve in the future.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Delivering the Next Generation of Cx Services via EMIS-based Automated Functional Testing
Armando Casillas, LBNL
Energy management and information systems (EMIS) have emerged in recent years as a powerful tool for delivering enhanced building operation at scale through services such as fault detection and diagnostics (FDD), fault resolution, optimal control, and automated functional testing. The benefits include energy savings, improved occupant comfort, and more streamlined maintenance practices. For commissioning providers, EMIS-based automated functional tests are a digital tool that can facilitate more cost-effective and consistent testing, enabling more frequent and comprehensive evaluation of HVAC systems. This presentation will highlight work done by LBNL to develop and deploy automated functional performance tests, including: 1) descriptions of open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests; and 2) group tests aimed at screening for problematic equipment and individual tests for isolating the source of those problems. The talk will also present a process for combining the results of individual tests to facilitate root cause fault diagnosis, demonstrated using the FDD rule set in ASHRAE’s Guideline 36.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn about the latest EMIS technologies and understand how it can be leveraged to execute automated functional testing.
- Describe the open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests through which automated functional testing can be performed.
- Understand how ASHRAE Guideline 36 implementations can be commissioned through automated functional testing.
- Understand the benefits of automated functional testing through EMIS software.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Advanced Nuclear Reactors: An Overview of Technologies & Deployment Timelines for Cx Providers
Brian Smith, Idaho National Laboratory
Nuclear power provides almost 20% of the nation’s energy, and nearly half of the nation’s clean energy. The current fleet of 94 reactors complements a diverse array of power generating technologies in the United States, but surpasses all others in terms of capacity and reliability. Intense interest in advanced nuclear reactors is underpinned by increases in projected domestic power demands by upwards of 30% in the next decade. The US Department of Energy, with bipartisan Congressional support, is engaged in a number of activities to develop, demonstrate, and deploy advanced nuclear technologies to address a range of use cases. These include traditional grid-scale energy supply; specialized power applications for data centers, remote communities, and disaster response; and for industrial heat to facilitate petrochemical production, steelmaking, hydrogen production, and desalination. This presentation will explore the various programs supported by the federal government to partner with industry on developing advanced nuclear technologies, provide an overview of various technologies and their potential use cases, and address technical, policy, and regulatory challenges and potential solutions to achieve widespread deployments of advanced reactors.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the various federal programs that have been authorized and appropriated by the US Congress to support advanced nuclear reactor development.
- Describe the key technologies used in today’s fleet of US large scale nuclear reactors, and the types of technologies the Department of Energy’s national laboratories and private industry are developing for advanced nuclear reactors.
- Describe the various use cases industry has identified for advanced nuclear applications.
- Assess the current technical, policy, and regulatory challenges associated with widespread deployments of advanced nuclear reactors in the next decade.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
What is the Role of Sustainability in Your Data Center?
Sean Butler, CxA, CAP, BranchPattern
Data centers and sustainability on the surface appear to be oxymorons. Data centers are known to be massive energy consumers. In fact, data centers are estimated to account for 10% of all energy consumption in the United States by 2026. We will discuss the role of retro commissioning and ongoing commissioning in a data center to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable operations.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify ECMs in a data center
- Identify pain points in the O&M of a data center
- Understand sustainability and decarbonization big picture
- Understand PUE and ways to improve it
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Women in Industry Panel
Amy Pastor, EXP
Sarah Maston, Colliers Project Leaders
Stacy Smedley, Building Transparency
- 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Reception in Expo Hall
Thursday, May 2, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Brown Bag Lunch
Thursday, May 1, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Opening Plenary Session
- 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Meet & Greet with Sponsors & Exhibitors - Expo Hall
No Energy Management Presentation at this time
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom A
Distributed Generation, Energy Storage and Interoperability Vehicle to Grid (V2G) Technology and Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Systems Cx
Mark Siira, IEEE Standards Committee 21Wayne Stec, IEEE Standards Committee 21
Electric vehicle fast-charging plazas are complexes integrating a wide variety of digital technologies and hardware/software, as well as grid interfaces requiring significant operational coordination. These plazas need sophisticated energy management systems to make a seamless and safe interconnection to the electric grid. This presentation will delve into technical design development and commissioning process details of this emerging mainstream public technology.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the concept and value of emerging V2G technology.
• Discover interface details required between charging plaza equipment and the general control guidelines.
• Review guidelines for successful installation and commissioning.
• Understand the concept of bi-directional charging and its impact on the grid.
• Provide general guidance for successful design, installation, operation and maintenance of EV charging plazas.
• Learn what is required to accomplish user-friendly EV charging station operation.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Leveraging Technology for Efficient Data Collection in Energy Audits
Hardik Miyani, P.E., CEM, CPHC, CRE, LEED GA, Baumann ConsultingJacob Terry, CxAlloy
This session explores how CxAlloy streamlines data collection during energy audits, improving accuracy and efficiency. Attendees will learn how this commissioning and project management tool centralizes data, enhances collaboration, and ensures accurate documentation. Real-world case studies will highlight its impact on audit processes, providing practical strategies for optimizing energy audits.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the functionalities of CxAlloy and how it supports data collection during energy audits.
- Apply best practices for utilizing CxAlloy to improve communication and collaboration among audit teams.
- Analyze case studies that demonstrate the successful integration of CxAlloy into energy audit processes, resulting in improved project outcomes.
- Develop strategies to incorporate CxAlloy into their own auditing practices to increase efficiency and accuracy in data management.
- 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Sustainable Design + High-Performance Commissioning = Zero at the Meter (Achieving True Net Zero)
Charles Jackson, P.E., CxA, PMP, CEM, LEED AP, CMTABrian Atkinson, CxA, Well AP, Sustainable Building Partners
It takes the entire project team to truly achieve net zero for a facility and to meet the widely accepted and brand new Zero Emissions Standard developed by the Department of Energy and ASHRAE. This presentation will highlight successful examples of net zero realization and the challenges encountered along the way.
Learning Objectives
- Learn the importance of focusing on sustainable design, with an emphasis on energy modeling and targeted EUI
- Explore the challenges of pursuing Net Zero and how a well-designed building does not always operate as expected
- Understand high-performance commissioning and what it takes to get to Net Zero/Zero Emissions
- Assess and refine strategies for post-occupancy performance
- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Building Decarbonization: Key Issues and Solutions for Occupancy, Wellness and Sustainability
Al LaPera, CxA, EMP, LEED AP, Kimley Horn AssociatesSarah Maston, Colliers Project LeadersStacy Smedley, Building Transparency
As the climate change impacts of building construction and operation become clearer and clearer, building designers, architects, and engineers need to take immediate action. Sustainable buildings are crucial to our future. The understanding of the carbon content of what makes up buildings, both embodied and operational, is essential. There are numerous decisions that must be made in the process of visioning and designing a building to reduce carbon content, especially the embodied carbon. This course covers the key issues of decarbonizing the building, as well as specific steps to be taken to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from the building industry. The discussion will include recent research on buildings and embodied carbon, focusing on increasing sustainability. Presenters will demonstrate how engineers, architects, and owners can leverage their roles and the available tools to reduce the EC content of their buildings. Includes options for embodied carbon reduction and contributions of Architecture 2030 and the SE 2050 challenge.
Learning Objectives:
- Define what “decarbonizing” a building project means, including explaining key terms such as “embodied carbon” and “net zero carbon”.
- Use key approaches in building design, material selection and specification to reduce the embodied carbon in the building envelope and structure. Also explain the available embodied carbon tools.
- Employ beneficial electrification to reduce buildings’ operational carbon dioxide emissions.
- Design to meet building performance standards as more local jurisdictions adopt these practices to meet community greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.
- 12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. Lunch in Expo Hall
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom D
Leveraging “Golden Opportunities” – UGA Energy Utility Master Planning Case Study
Jason Perry, CEM, University of Georgia
Ben Dombrowski, Jacobs
This presentation will explore a unique opportunity at the University of Georgia and the “golden opportunities” at the alignment of campus goals. We will look at conditions that drove scenario creation, how nexus points were identified, and the creation of an actionable roadmap to modernize the campus thermal utility infrastructure.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of thorough stakeholder engagement.
- Think differently about untapped resources.
- Appreciate the scale and complexity of such an undertaking.
- Understand the broad range of factors required to evaluate viability of future scenarios.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Importance of AI in the Utility and Facility Management Industries
Robert Knoedler, P.E., CxA, EMP, Hanson Professional Services
Kevin Scarborough
P.E., CEM, LEED AP, Siemens Smart Infrastructure
The world’s appetite for energy continues to grow with estimates of a 60% increase above current demands by 2050. Driven by governments’ push toward electrification, the transition to renewable energy must accelerate to have any hope in reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GGE) in line with global decarbonization goals. This transition will require an evolution in the electrical utility industry, requiring management of many more distributed energy assets (DER), involving variable generation and storage. Concurrently, with buildings and facilities accounting for approximately 40% of energy consumption, concerted efforts will be required to reduce demand and increase efficiency. Enter artificial intelligence (AI) and its ability to collect, collate, and analyze massive amounts of data. The panel will discuss the various ways AI is being employed to assist utilities and facility managers to improve grid performance and ensure optimum performance of facility systems.
Learning Objectives:
- How AI is being employed in the utility industry to help manage DER assets and increase resiliency and security
- The various ways AI can assist facility managers in monitoring and analyzing the multitude of data available from IoT devices and various sensors through ongoing / monitoring-based Cx, incorporating fault detection and diagnostics (FDD).
- Available offerings of AI systems and their associated application and features
- Recommendations for implementation of AI and the associated requirements regarding upskilling (training and management by FM staff).
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Delivering the Next Generation of Cx Services via EMIS-based Automated Functional Testing
Armando Casillas, LBNL
Energy management and information systems (EMIS) have emerged in recent years as a powerful tool for delivering enhanced building operation at scale through services such as fault detection and diagnostics (FDD), fault resolution, optimal control, and automated functional testing. The benefits include energy savings, improved occupant comfort, and more streamlined maintenance practices. For commissioning providers, EMIS-based automated functional tests are a digital tool that can facilitate more cost-effective and consistent testing, enabling more frequent and comprehensive evaluation of HVAC systems. This presentation will highlight work done by LBNL to develop and deploy automated functional performance tests, including: 1) descriptions of open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests; and 2) group tests aimed at screening for problematic equipment and individual tests for isolating the source of those problems. The talk will also present a process for combining the results of individual tests to facilitate root cause fault diagnosis, demonstrated using the FDD rule set in ASHRAE’s Guideline 36.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn about the latest EMIS technologies and understand how it can be leveraged to execute automated functional testing.
- Describe the open-loop component tests and closed-loop system tests through which automated functional testing can be performed.
- Understand how ASHRAE Guideline 36 implementations can be commissioned through automated functional testing.
- Understand the benefits of automated functional testing through EMIS software.
- 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Reception in Expo Hall
Thursday, May 2, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Brown Bag Lunch
No Energy Management Presentation at this time
Thursday, May 1, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Opening Plenary Session
No TAB/IAQ Presentation at this time
- 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Meet & Greet with Sponsors & Exhibitors - Expo Hall
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Opening Plenary Session
- 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Collaboration Through the TAB Process
Alvin Beddingfield, Jr., TBE, Engineered Air Balance Co., Inc.
An informational session to focus on the obstacles encountered during the construction and TAB process of a visual performance art center and administration building. We will discuss challenges associated with the TAB process on a non-typical building designed with numerous elevation changes and specialty finishes. I will highlight the strategies we employed to overcome them.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the challenges associated with performing TAB services on a visual performance arts center or administration building.
- Examine the importance of collaborating with the general contractor, owner, design team, and subcontractors in a lesson-learned format for participants on future projects.
- Understand the importance of site visit observations to determine the readiness of finishes and to identify potential issues that will impact the TAB Process and project schedule.
- Gain an understanding of the TAB measurement process on a non-typical building and methods used to provide proper data collection.
- 12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. Lunch in Expo Hall
No TAB/IAQ Presentation at this time
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Cracking the Code: Tackling the Toughest Challenges in HVAC Flow Measurement
Al LaPera, CxA, EMP, LEED AP, Kimley Horn AssociatesEugene Sollog, ONICON
Flow measurement is crucial for optimizing HVAC systems, but industry experts often encounter challenges that can impede efficiency and performance. This panel discussion aims to take a deep dive into the most common problems faced by professionals in the field, share valuable insights into overcoming these obstacles, and provide practical solutions and strategies for improving flow measurement practices in HVAC systems. Drawing on real-world experiences and case studies, our panel of seasoned experts will tackle key issues such as:
Learning Objectives:
• Identifying the right flow meter and technology for the application and explaining issues that can arise from poor selection.
• Common integration difficulties and solutions including straight run limitations, retrofitting, and identifying ideal placement for flow measurement devices.
• Accuracy and calibration – common pitfalls in achieving precise measurements and the impact of calibration errors on system performance.
• Lessons learned based on real-world applications and conditions will be discussed.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Specifying Duct Leakage - Percent Leakage vs Leakage Class
Gaylon Richardson, TBE, CxA, Engineered Air Balance Council
Mike Kelly, TBE, CxA, American Testing, Inc.
Energy efficiency is a main concern for HVAC systems relating to Duct system leakage. The concerning question is how the engineer specifies duct leakage in specifications.
Learning Objectives:
- Know and understand the different standards : AABC Leakage Standards / SMACNA Seal Class A / ASHRAE 90.1 / California Uniform Mechanical Code
- Be familiar with how to decipher the allowed leakage rate when using SMACNA leakage class
- Able to do a comparison of AABC %leakage standards to System Test CFM vs Duct Section CFM (Cumulative leakage rate) utilizing actual rates.
- Be able to explain the considerations for Energy Loses & Cost.
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Town & Country Ballroom B
Test, Adjust & Balance; Lessons Learned for Engineers, Cx & Energy Providers
Brian Venn, TBE, CxA, Mechanical Testing
Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) is a process utilized for heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) and related systems to optimize system performance and prove that design intent has been met. Equipment selection, improper and proper use of TAB instrumentation, system layout for testing and maintenance access, document review strategies, defining meaningful and useful TAB data, incorporating new industry product technologies, and project scheduling issues are all common challenges that a TAB provider encounters. This article offers solutions and ideas to help overcome these challenges, for the benefit of the design professional, construction team, commissioning provider and ultimately the building owner.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the proper use, application, and limitations of the TAB instrumentation.
- Understand what is accurate, useful and meaningful data that is obtained in the field vs. laboratory data for use on their project.
- Gain an understanding of HVAC systems and the TAB/measurement process; how can systems be set up to allow for proper data collection.
- Promote a project team approach to address schedule challenges, design alternatives as it relates to balancing device types/locations, equipment usage and HVAC system operation.
- 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Reception in Expo Hall
No TAB/IAQ Presentation at this time
Thursday, May 2, 2025
- 7:00 a.m. Registration Open
- 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast
- 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Brown Bag Lunch
CxA certification is open to independent industry professionals who meet all education and experience prerequisites and implement commissioning processes in new and existing buildings.
The Energy Management Process Seminar is designed to help candidates understand the energy management process and how it can be applied and serves as the final preparation for the Energy Management Professional (EMP) exam.
