Durham Strategic Plan Dashboard
Prosperity
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Complete/Ongoing
Initiative: 5.11 Implement energy efficiency measures in city facilities and operations (CNRE)
Thriving & Vibrant Environment
Description
Reducing energy usage in City facilities is a key pillar of the City’s Carbon Neutrality and Renewable Energy Action Plan. This plan commits the City to achieving 50% carbon neutrality by 2030 and 100% by 2040. The City is engaged in a number of activities to promote energy efficiency, including retrofitting lighting in City buildings to LEDs, upgrading controls, equipment, and operations at City facilities, and expanding building energy management systems.
Key Measures & Data Analysis
Energy use intensity (EUI) is an indicator of the energy efficiency of a building. It is calculated by dividing the total annual energy use (electric and natural gas) for all City buildings in kBTUs by the total square feet of all City buildings.
Energy use intensity has been decreasing in City buildings in the past few years. This decrease is attributed to energy efficiency improvements, including HVAC upgrades, building HVAC control system optimization in City facilities, and LED lighting retrofit projects. This trend should continue in the future as more initiatives are implemented.
City Buildings' Energy Usage
Why is it important?
Energy efficiency measures in city facilities and operations generates cost savings by reducing the City's overall energy use and utility bills. The City can then use those funds for other essential services. Energy efficiency measures will also allow the City to reduce its carbon footprint.
What have we been doing?
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Conducting Energy Audits to identify energy savings opportunities
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Implementing a Utility Data Tool for benchmarking and savings tracking
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Installing and/or updating facility Building Management Systems
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Performing HVAC equipment and lighting upgrades
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Switching out natural gas equipment for electric
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Recommissioning buildings to optimize their performance
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Training Staff to operate facilities more efficiently
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Implementing a Utility Data Management system to streamline reporting and monitor progress
What's next?
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Implement energy conservation measures identified in Energy Audits
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Continue to upgrade Building Management Systems
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Complete Pole Lighting retrofits to LEDs
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Adopt the High Performance Building Policy
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Monitor our energy consumption to verify savings and to identify additional savings opportunities
City Website Home Page: Durham, NC | Official Website (durhamnc.gov)
Budget Website Page: Budget & Management Services Department | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov)
Budget and Management Services Department
Office of Performance and Innovation
Strategy and Performance Division