As a nationwide firm with design/build capabilities, we identify, design, and deliver efficiency projects for clients across the United States. These projects are rooted in several core energy services that help commercial and industrial buildings save energy.
“Energy services” as a term isn’t always clear as it relates to the work we do. Does it mean energy procurement? Negotiating with utilities? 1-for-1 equipment swap?
We asked – and answered – 6 questions about how Mantis Innovation defines energy services to help businesses across the country understand their options for installing efficiency solutions designed by our engineers.
How do we define “energy services”?
Energy services have a primary goal of energy conservation, using energy more efficiently and reducing energy use. Energy services can include:
Why are energy services important?
Energy services can benefit businesses of all sizes in several ways, but the largest is with electricity savings. The cost of electricity can vary greatly across the country. HVAC and mechanical system upgrades can yield immediate and year-round savings for regions with harsh winters and/or hot summers. Essentially, efficiency services that lower energy use will – throughout a year’s energy usage – lower corresponding energy bills as well.
What challenges do commercial/industrial facilities face when considering energy services?
The two main challenges facilities face when taking on a new efficiency project are typically scope and execution. Most facilities have just the right number of staff to keep their operations running smoothly. This means that if they want to take on something new, they are stretching their resources, and for something as complex as energy services projects, that can feel like a nearly impossible task. The best solution to both challenges is to work with a trusted ESCO (Energy Service Company) to design, build, and install an efficiency project that will deliver on its goals and provide the financial and operational results a facility seeks.
What questions should prospective clients ask of ESCOs?
Always ask about experience and references. You want a company that knows how to create the solution you are looking for but also someone who knows how to execute that solution well. Some of the questions we recommend asking include:
- What previous projects have you completed that delivered the best ROI for the customer?
- How will we communicate and collaborate throughout the project?
- How many years have you been working in this business?
- What time frame or project scope should I expect to obtain the best utility incentives available for my project(s)?
What facility/operations problems can energy services solve?
Some of the problems facilities face that can be solved by energy services are:
- OSHA violations: Federal Law has several specific heating, lighting, and safety requirements that need to be met. Many of these can be mitigated during the course of an efficiency project that implements a number of energy services.
- Budget issues: One factor that can stall a project is the cost. However, many people forget to consider how much it would cost them not to do the project. In most situations, energy efficiency projects will pay themselves off in 3-5 years for lighting and 5-10 years for mechanical.
- Operational issues: No one likes being too hot, too cold, or working in a dark space. Energy projects, such as an HVAC upgrade or an LED retrofit, not only save energy. but they also improve operating environments.
How do various industries – such as – manufacturing, healthcare/hospitals, or biotech – benefit from energy services?
Clients in different industries all benefit from the savings on their electric and gas bills. “Cash is king,” as they say, and energy projects ultimately save money.
There is also a brand reputation aspect to consider. When you enter a well-lit and comfortably conditioned space, you are likely more comfortable and less stressed. You are more inclined to appreciate that space, and if you are a potential customer or employee, you may think more favorably of the owners of the facility.
Energy services benefit the manufacturing industry by enabling employees to work better, for similar reasons. Locations with outdated, old, or dim lighting will benefit from upgrading to LED lighting and controls.
Hospitals, healthcare, and the biotech industry all operate sensitive facilities that require 24/7 run time or may have significant and specialized HVAC requirements. Especially if tackling multiple facilities for a biotech campus or a hospital network, energy projects in these industries can often be designed to be comprehensive, involve multiple or all the energy services listed above, and therefore qualify a large part of project expense for utility incentives which, in the end, saves our clients even more money.
Additionally, energy projects can help with risk mitigation by ensuring reliable and efficient systems that prevent failures. System failures in these critical facilities can have severe consequences, including compromised patient care, disrupted research activities, and significant financial losses. By implementing robust energy solutions, these industries can maintain continuous operations and safeguard against potential risks.
Looking to learn more about energy services for your facility? Contact us.
