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The Power of Collaborative Project Delivery

February 5, 2024

Enhancing Energy Efficiency

In the realm of sustainable development, energy efficiency stands as a paramount goal. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, companies dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint are at the forefront of change. One key approach that has gained significant traction is collaborative project delivery. This innovative approach not only ensures streamlined processes but also plays a pivotal role in the success all project partners including us, an energy savings company (ESCO).

Collaborative project delivery is a method that involves close cooperation between various stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, clients, and energy savings company, throughout all phases of a project. A collaborative approach proves to be invaluable. Navitas is committed to helping clients minimizing their energy consumption and environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. Let’s delve into how collaborative project delivery amplifies these efforts:

Holistic Perspective:

Collaborative project delivery encourages a holistic approach to project planning and execution. In the context of energy efficiency, this means that stakeholders from different fields work together from the outset, ensuring that each aspect of the project aligns with the overarching goal of reducing energy consumption. Architects, for instance, can design spaces that maximize natural light and ventilation, while engineers can integrate innovative energy-efficient technologies. The team works in tandem with the owner’s goals.

Expertise Integration:

Navitas thrives on the unification of expertise from all project partners. Collaborative project delivery facilitates the seamless integration of the entire teams’ skills. Engineers can devise intricate energy management systems that can be integrated into the building’s design by architects, while contractors can ensure that sustainable materials are used. This synergy creates a harmonious blend of solutions that result in both energy savings and operational excellence.

Real-time Problem Solving:

Complex projects often encounter unforeseen challenges. Collaborative project delivery enables real-time problem-solving as the entire team collaborates to address issues. In the energy-efficient sector, this agility is crucial. For instance, if a planned renewable energy system faces technical hurdles, engineers and contractors can brainstorm together to find alternative solutions that maintain or enhance the building’s energy efficiency.

Continuous Communication:

Clear communication lies at the heart of collaborative project delivery. Regular discussions and updates ensure that all project partners remain aligned with the energy-efficient goals and objectives. This constant dialogue extends to post-project evaluation, allowing Navitas to assess whether the energy-saving targets have been met and identify areas for improvement.

Risk Mitigation:

Energy-efficient projects often involve cutting-edge technologies and unconventional approaches. Collaborative project delivery helps in mitigating risks associated with such endeavors. The collective wisdom of the team minimizes the chances of errors and missteps, safeguarding the project’s success and the company’s reputation.

Innovation Cultivation:

Energy-efficient companies thrive on innovation. Collaborative project delivery nurtures an environment where new ideas are welcomed and explored. Architects, engineers, and other project partners collaborate to brainstorm innovative ways to harness renewable energy, optimize HVAC systems, or employ smart building technologies, thereby pushing the boundaries of energy efficiency.

Long-term Sustainability:

The collaborative approach doesn’t conclude with project completion. For Navitas and our clients, long-term sustainability is a critical goal. Collaborative project delivery ensures that all partners remain invested even after the project is finalized. Maintenance teams, for instance, can work alongside designers to ensure that the building’s energy-efficient systems continue to perform optimally.

The value of collaborative project delivery in the context of an energy-efficient project cannot be overstated. This approach brings together expertise from various fields, fosters innovation, and drives long-term sustainability. In a world that is increasingly conscious of the environmental impact, companies dedicated to energy efficiency are setting a powerful example by embracing collaborative project delivery. As the synergy between diverse talents and perspectives leads to the creation of truly sustainable spaces, it becomes evident that collaboration is the cornerstone upon which the future of energy efficiency is built.

What Questions Should I Ask an Energy Savings Company (ESCO)?

January 3, 2024

When engaging with an energy savings company to enhance energy efficiency within a school district, a school superintendent should ask pertinent questions to ensure a successful partnership. Here are five crucial questions to ask the ESCO you are proposing to work with:

1. Scope of Services:

What specific energy-saving solutions does your company offer?
Can you provide a detailed breakdown of how each solution will contribute to energy savings within our schools?
How customizable are your services to accommodate the unique needs and infrastructure of our district?

2. Cost-Benefit Analysis:

How will the proposed energy-efficient upgrades impact our operational costs and budget over the short and long term?
Can you present case studies or examples from other schools that demonstrate the financial benefits achieved through your services?
Are there any potential rebates, incentives, or financing options available to offset the upfront costs of implementing these solutions?

3. Performance Measurement and Reporting:

How do you track and measure the energy savings resulting from the implemented solutions?
What tools or technologies do you use to provide real-time monitoring and reporting on energy consumption?
Can you outline the frequency and depth of the reports we will receive to assess the progress of the energy-saving initiatives?

4. Environmental Impact:

How does your company prioritize environmentally friendly and sustainable practices in your energy-saving solutions?
What metrics or certifications do you use to quantify the reduction in our carbon footprint as a result of these initiatives?
Can you share examples of successful projects that not only achieved energy savings but also contributed positively to the environment?

5. Long-Term Partnership and Support:

What level of ongoing maintenance and support do you provide once the energy-efficient solutions are implemented?
How do you ensure that the implemented systems continue to perform optimally and deliver the projected savings over time?
Are there opportunities for training our staff to maximize the benefits of these energy-saving technologies?

These questions will help the school superintendent evaluate the energy savings an ESOC’s expertise, offerings, and alignment with the school district’s goals. A transparent and comprehensive discussion will ultimately lead to informed decisions that benefit the schools, students, and the environment.

Navitas helps schools with their deferred maintenance and energy efficiency projects. Our approach is to work collaboratively with our clients to ensure we have an agreed upon understanding of the challenges. With this, we create a development approach that includes all your staff, at every level of your organization, necessary to solve the challenges.

Illuminating Efficiency

December 5, 2023

Steps for a City to Hire an Energy Savings Company

In the pursuit of sustainable development, cities around the world are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency as a key component of their growth strategy. Recognizing the significance of reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, many cities are turning to energy savings companies (ESCOs) to harness expertise and drive transformative change. Hiring an ESCO is a strategic move that requires careful consideration and planning. Here, we outline the essential steps for a city to engage an ESCO effectively and pave the way for a more energy-efficient future for its citizens.

Step 1: Define Objectives

Before embarking on the journey of hiring an ESCO, a city must first identify its energy efficiency goals. This involves evaluating existing energy consumption patterns, identifying potential areas for improvement, and setting realistic targets. Whether the focus is on upgrading municipal buildings, street lighting, transportation systems, or public facilities, clear objectives will serve as the foundation for the entire process. This could be inclusive of all city owned properties or just one building.

Step 2: Market Research and Pre-qualification

Cities must undertake comprehensive market research to identify potential ESCOs with proven track records in similar projects. Pre-qualification ensures that only experienced and financially stable ESCOs move forward in the selection process, minimizing risks and ensuring the city’s interests are protected.

Step 3: Request for Proposals (RFP)

The RFP stage is critical, as it provides ESCOs with a detailed understanding of the city’s needs, expectations, and project requirements. The RFP should include technical specifications, performance benchmarks, evaluation criteria, and contractual terms. A well-structured RFP allows ESCOs to submit comprehensive proposals that address the city’s unique challenges and propose innovative solutions.

Step 4: Evaluation and Selection

City officials, sustainability experts, and other stakeholders evaluate the submitted proposals based on predefined criteria. Evaluations may consider technical expertise, financial viability, proposed energy-saving measures, project timeline, and potential for community engagement. The selection process aims to identify the ESCO that offers the most compelling and well-aligned approach to achieving the city’s energy efficiency goals.

Step 5: Negotiation and Contracting

Once the preferred ESCO is selected, negotiations begin to finalize the project scope, terms, and contractual agreements. Key aspects to address include performance guarantees, measurement and verification protocols, project costs, and project duration. The contract should clearly outline responsibilities, risk allocation, and dispute resolution mechanisms to ensure a smooth collaboration.

Step 6: Implementation and Monitoring

With the contract in place, the city and the chosen ESCO begin the implementation phase. This involves executing the proposed energy-saving measures, which could encompass a range of activities such as retrofitting buildings, upgrading lighting systems, installing renewable energy sources, and optimizing infrastructure. Throughout this phase, regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms are established to track progress against predefined benchmarks and ensure that the projected energy savings are being realized.

Step 7: Measurement and Verification

Following the implementation phase, an independent third-party measurement and verification process is crucial to confirm the achieved energy savings. This step ensures transparency, accountability, and trust between the city and the ESCO. If the energy savings fall short of the agreed-upon targets, the contract may include remedies or adjustments to address the discrepancy.

Step 8: Continuous Improvement and Collaboration

Energy efficiency initiatives should not end with the completion of the initial project. Cities and ESCOs should engage in ongoing collaboration to explore additional opportunities for energy savings and sustainability improvements. By continuously monitoring and optimizing systems, cities can maximize the long-term benefits of their partnership with the ESCO.

Navitas can help you from start to finish. We’ve helped cities with the proposal process and guiding them through a continuous improvement plan well past the installation of the energy efficient projects. We are here to be your partner. Contact us today for more information on how we can help your city starting saving taxpayer dollars.

Things to Consider Before Moving Forward With an ESCO

February 3, 2023

The goal of many educators is to become a superintendent. You go to school to obtain the right degree, certification, and knowledge to lead a school district. The problem is that most of the education and training we receive does not fully prepare us to do the job that we are expected to do by staff, parents, and our community. When I became a superintendent, I thought I had a pretty good grasp of how to do the educational side of the job. I was not as prepared or educated on how to deal with the maintenance and upkeep of the district and everything that goes with it. Ultimately, I turned to an Energy Service Company (ESCO) to help meet the needs of my district. From my personal experience, here are some of the things you should consider if you feel an Energy Performance Contract (EPC) is in your school district’s best interest.

District Concerns

What is your pain? Meaning, what is your biggest issue you are facing in your district? Is it finances, deferred maintenance, or salaries, etc.? Who is the driving force behind these issues, the BOE, community, staff, or matters that you are concerned about? How can you address these issues in a way that will satisfy the needs of all parties involved? There are many avenues that a superintendent may go down to accomplish this, the goal is to figure out what best fits your district. Understanding the driving force behind hiring an ESCO is essential to starting the process of hiring one.

Energy Service Company (ESCO)

Understand how an ESCO can help your district can be accomplished in a few ways:

Through funding mechanisms. Using an EPC allows you to be more flexible with the districts money in how you approach your district’s needs.
Through guaranteed energy savings. An ESCO can evaluate your district and find cost saving measures through replacement or upgrades of current mechanical or electrical systems or items. There are considerable savings in LED Lighting, Building Automation and HVAC. For instance, when I used an EPC, I was guaranteed $30,000 dollars of energy savings every year, which I validated and saw a reduction of over $30,000 annually on my electric bills. This was a substantial savings for our small school district.

Deferred Maintenance

As I mentioned earlier, deferred maintenance was something I was not as prepared for. My district had so many needs. We needed a new roof and tuck pointing. We had HVAC issues (building automation), gym wall issues, building weatherization issues, and a few other minor issues. Trying to figure out how I was going to accomplish all these needs was a little overwhelming until I had my first conversation with an ESCO. As we had further conversations, it made complete sense for our district to hire an ESCO, as most of our district’s deferred maintenance needs could be met in one project. The next issue that arose was how the district would pay for all of this. If some of your projects fall under Missouri Statue 8.231, then looking into an EPC may be very beneficial to your district.

Funding the Project

Funding in public schools is always a concern. There seems to never be enough money to meet the needs of a school district. This is where you really need to have a good working relationship with your financial group. Learn how they can help you financially to meet your district’s needs. It could be through a no-tax bond, a tax levy increase, or maybe a lease purchase. I know there is a lot that goes into this from what your status of reserves to bonding capacity to AV growth, etc. Your financial group will help you determine what is the best fit financially for your district or even if it is possible for you to tackle these issues. I was fortunate that we had healthy reserves and a good bonding capacity that we were able to do a million-dollar lease purchase to address most of our deferred maintenance. The following year I rolled that lease purchase into a no-tax bond, which freed up money to put into teacher salaries. The teachers loved that!

Right Fit

You need to determine if hiring an ESCO is the right fit for your district or if going through an architect is a better path. It really depends on the needs of your district. Both are good avenues, and at times it may make sense to hire both! From my experience, hiring an ESCO was the right thing for the needs I had in my buildings, and it gave me guaranteed savings that I could then use for teacher salaries. It became a win for me with having lots of deferred maintenance and needing to bolster teacher salaries to be competitive. Educate yourself as much as possible about this process to make the best decision for your school district.

This information is to provide some direction as you consider moving forward with your construction and deferred maintenance needs. I know it can be scary and a little overwhelming at times but, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Find a company you trust that will have the best interests of district in mind and ask as many questions as you can through the process.

About the author – Scott Archibald is an Education Consultant with Navitas. His background as a school administrator and 28 years of experience in the education sector help him bring a practical approach to developing strategies for school districts wanting guidance on how to initiate an energy conservation program in their facilities. He can be reached at sarchibald@navitas.us.com.

Solar – Does It Make Sense for Us?

September 15, 2022

We routinely get this question as we assess buildings for potential energy efficiency improvements. Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy answer. There are many variables that need to be considered when contemplating whether a solar project makes sense for your buildings. In this article we discuss some of the more important questions to ask before adding solar generation on your facilities.

1. Electric Utility Rate Structure and Each Building’s Utility Load Profile

This is perhaps the most important variable to consider when determining the financial viability of a solar installation. In a recent project, we evaluated 12 buildings in a school district. Several of them had the same utility rate structure, but the maximum demand and number of run hours of each building varied greatly; which affects the cost of electric consumption and therefore how much the solar production value would be for that individual electric meter/building. We saw a huge variance in the effective solar production value for each building. In some buildings a 100 kW solar array would produce around $12,000 annually, and in other buildings that same size array would only produce $6,000 annually. Both arrays would have produced the same amount of electricity for the building, but we projected a huge difference in actual dollars saved.

75 kW Array – Shawnee Fire Station 72

2. Cost and Quality of Solar Panels

Good quality solar panels should generate electricity for over 25 years. Make sure what you’re purchasing is from a reputable source with warranties on production for 20+ years.

3. The Roof Under the Solar Panels

Often the best time to install solar is right after a roof project. Most commercial roofs should last over 20 years. Typically, we don’t see an increase in insurance premiums when our public sector clients install solar on their buildings. But speak with your insurance provider to make sure.

If your roofs are old or approaching the end of life that’s OK. We have seen clients include in a bid to remove/reinstall the roof once after the first 10 years, to account for eventual need for roofing replacements. This should just be discussed with your solar designer/installing contractor.

4. How Do I Pay for Solar?

Our public sector clients typically finance projects through their financial advisor. We have seen many ways this this type of project gets funded. Most recently, one of our clients used a lease-purchase with a 20-year term to fund the construction. Financed in this way, their return on investment was around 9-10 years.

Commercial sector clients would also be able to take advantage of renewable tax credits, which could reduce the capital cost of an array by 35%.

75 kW Array – Orrick R-XI School District

About the author – Ryan Terry is a business development manager with Navitas. His background as a professional engineer and 19 years of experience in the energy industry help him bring a practical approach to developing strategies for public sector clients who want guidance in how to initiate an energy conservation program in their facilities. He can be reached at rterry@navitas.us.com.