RCx Flex Project of the Year
Retro-Commissioning (RCx)
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Overview

Oak Forest High School embarked on a retro-commissioning project in collaboration with BIN Physics.

The primary objectives of the retro-commissioning project, facilitated by BIN Physics through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program Retro-Commissioning Flex Offering, were to optimize energy usage, improve the indoor environment, and achieve substantial cost savings for the school.

Oak Forest HS is a comprehensive public high school with a student population of approximately 1,325 students in grades 9-12. In addition to classrooms and offices, the school has various athletic oriented spaces, including a swimming pool, basketball courts, and a field house.

Solutions

Oak Forest High School faced inefficiencies in its HVAC systems, particularly with 18 outdated dual duct air handling units (AHUs) connected to an advanced Building Automation System (BAS). The project identified AHUs not responding to schedules, resulting in simultaneous heating and cooling of spaces. In addition, lighting systems and pumps were inefficiently controlled, and many HVAC units were not economizing.

The project focused on upgrading the control systems of the outdated AHUs, ensuring they responded accurately to schedules and avoided simultaneous heating and cooling. The lighting systems were optimized for efficiency, and economizing features were integrated into the HVAC units.

BIN Physics, in coordination with the school district, managed the construction and implementation phases of the project. The costs associated with these improvements were entirely covered by the RCx Flex Offering.

Impact

The retro-commissioning project resulted in substantial energy savings, totaling 980,498 kWh and 38,635 therms annually. These improvements translated to an impressive annual cost savings of $122,777 by reducing its energy bill by 24.1%. Post-implementation analysis confirmed the building is currently experiencing this level of savings.

Beyond the financial gains, the retro-commissioning project positively impacted the indoor environment at the school. The optimization of HVAC systems and lighting controls ensures a more comfortable and conducive learning and recreational atmosphere for students and staff.

In addition, the project's success was awarded with the 2022 RCx Flex Project of the Year and EESP Rookie of the Year. These awards recognize the superior technical excellence, dedication to client success, and collaborative customer service provided by BIN Physics. In 2022, the project achieved more energy savings than any other project in the ComEd® Energy Efficiency Program RCx Flex offering.

This collaboration, utilizing the RCx Flex Offering, showcased the potential for energy efficiency improvements in educational institutions. The project successfully addressed challenges in outdated HVAC systems, resulting in substantial energy and cost savings. Oak Forest High School now stands as an exemplar of sustainability in educational facilities, demonstrating the effectiveness of retro-commissioning in achieving tangible results.

We love what we do

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When I work on these projects, I put in a lot of hours and do what would I do if I owned the building. If I did, I’d leave no stone unturned looking for ways to save money. Plus, it makes the building more comfortable and it’s good for the environment, so why not? I have fun doing this and I think these are all reasons why my projects are successful.
Chris Benson, P.E.

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