CLTC researchers are developing a standard methodology for conducting field demonstrations to better inform energy codes and standards enhancement.
Demonstrations play a critical role in identifying technologies with the most potential to meet California’s energy efficiency goals, but there are a variety of monitoring and verification (M&V) procedures with different objectives and procedures. The methodology that CLTC is developing can be used for any emerging technology field demonstration. Future projects receiving funds from the California Energy Commission will be using this standard. It will be applicable to projects outside California since the need for an accepted methodology is nationwide.
The work is a key piece in a broader CLTC research project funded by the Energy Commission called the Codes and Standards Enhancement-Quality Demonstration Program (CASE-Q DP). Future state-funded field demonstrations will follow the requirements and processes laid out in the CASE-Q DP Program Manual, which is in draft form. The CASE-Q DP supports the identification, selection, installation and performance assessments of energy-efficient building technologies ready to be included in California's Codes and Standards Enhancement initiatives that the Energy Commission, utilities and others may be working on.
Having a uniform, consistent approach to research, development, and demonstration will provide a more transparent assessment of publicly funded demonstrations and improve the reliability and relevance of project results. Study results from two demonstration projects are being used to test and refine the M&V processes and procedures being developed.
The outdoor commercial project uses microwave occupancy sensors that sense and differentiate between pedestrians and smaller and larger vehicles. The technology, which is being tested along Second Street in Davis and the University of California, Irvine, is appropriate for outdoor commercial applications with luminaires mounted at a height over 24 feet. The indoor residential project is evaluating LED screw-based replacement lamps that meet the Voluntary California Quality LED Lamp Specification. Multiple LED lamps will be installed throughout homes in a multi-family housing community. The community selected was Cottonwood Meadows Apartments in Woodland.
Read more about the research in the LD+A article here.
Learn more about the microwave occupancy sensors.
The final report and appendices are available on the California Energy Commission's website.