David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Project Overview

HEAPY provided an ASHRAE Level II Energy Audit to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center (DLCC), moving the organization forward with their energy efficiency goals. The project focused on identifying low-cost and no-cost measures that could be immediately implemented. By focusing on both implementation projects and long-term planning, our team successfully assisted DLCC in reducing energy consumption and improving long-term facility operations.

The study focused on identifying opportunities for optimization of existing systems, relative to energy efficiency, comfort, and maintenance, while prioritizing operational conditions in the facility. HEAPY confirmed the accuracy of existing benchmarking information and then identified the most viable and beneficial projects for the convention center. Our team investigated real-time operations on site and reviewed utility data, construction documents, building automation system trends, operational reports, and past facility studies, giving DLCC the confidence that all options have been considered. The utility data analysis included review of Energy Star Performance and three years of utility bill analysis. Recommendations were categorized into near-term opportunities and long-term, more capital intensive opportunities. BAS sequences recommendations were provided for each opportunity.

The study identified 1,700 metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions reductions, helping the convention center and the surrounding community progress towards carbon neutrality. Local utility incentives were identified to be pursued within 12 months of study completion.

Collaboration

HEAPY partnered throughout this project with Advantus Engineering, a local WBE in Pittsburg, to provide comprehensive project management and quality control/quality assurance (QA/QC) throughout the energy audit. Our multi-faceted team ensured project recommendations were relevant, useful, and inclusive of all opportunity types. We took into consideration the total benefit – energy goals, building operator input, and financial plans, thereby creating an actionable implementation plan.

The HEAPY and Advantus team leveraged our convention center expertise to bring every opportunity forward to DLCC for consideration. Our team fostered buy-in from decision makers, facility managers, operations staff, and financial teams, ensuring that the project findings were accepted and implemented, rather than overridden or removed when the project completion date had come and gone.

During the energy audit, we supported day-to-day operations and encouraged participation in project activities, such as optimization measure charrettes, recommendation review meetings, and final report presentations.