Building Tune-Up Programs
Incentives for Optimizing Existing Building Systems
At Puget Sound Energy, we believe that cost-effective and substantial energy savings can be achieved through improved operation and maintenance (O&M) of a wide variety of non-residential buildings. That is why we offer financial incentives to building owners who engage in our Building Tune-Up programs for optimizing existing building systems.
What is a Building Tune-Up?
A Building Tune-Up is a systematic process for investigating, analyzing and optimizing the energy performance of a building’s systems. It focuses on the operation of the building, its mechanical equipment, lighting and related controls, and helps them to perform interactively to achieve energy savings and improve occupant comfort.
Why is a Building Tune-Up Necessary?
Over time, changes in occupancy and function can challenge the operation of original building systems. A building’s mechanical and electrical systems often become less efficient as the building ages and experiences change. Small problems, lack of maintenance or errors in equipment settings can create inefficiencies that result in higher costs for utility bills, repairs and maintenance.
What is the difference between PSE’s Custom Retrofit Grants and the Building Tune-Up Programs?
Retrofits for energy-efficiency involve replacing outdated or inefficient equipment. Building Tune-Ups, on the other hand, focus on improving the operational efficiency of what is already in place, meaning that efficiency can be achieved with no major capital expense for the building owner.
PSE offers two approaches to Building Tune-Ups—a simple approach and a comprehensive approach. Both programs serve PSE customers with buildings larger than 50,000 square feet.
Both programs offer financial incentives for owners who participate in the optimization of existing buildings’ systems.
- One-on-one off-site technical support
- ENERGY STAR® Benchmark
- Analysis and tracking of energy usage
- Relevant webinars
- Performance incentives
- Existing building commissioning process
- Comprehensive on-site review of systems
- Analysis and tracking of energy usage
- PSE-approved Commissioning Providers
- Systems Manual
- Hands-on training
- Incentive for Commissioning Provider’s costs
- Performance incentives