You can generate the most savings by investing in premium efficiency equipment and systems that save energy over the long term. Cash incentives from Energy Trust of Oregon and Oregon Business Energy Tax Credits help cover costs and reduce payback periods on many measures.

Additional assistance may be available through the Oregon Energy Loan Program. These low-interest loans are available to businesses, individuals and entities for projects that save energy, produce energy from renewable resources, use recycled materials to create products or use alternative fuels.

Typical measures and payback periods*
Install electronic controls and economizers
You can slash energy use through more precise control of your HVAC system. Electronic controls allow you to automatically set temperatures lower during unoccupied hours, turn equipment on and off and vary its speed. Many choices are available to create the system that best meets your needs. Economizers use outside air for heating and cooling whenever possible, further reducing your energy demands.

Install high-efficiency motors and variable frequency drives
Premium efficiency motors often exceed EPA standards and are used for air circulation, chilled water circulation and cooling tower and exhaust fans. They run cooler, last longer and are more reliable. You can save even more energy by installing variable frequency drives to match energy use to actual demand. For some larger motors, the payback in energy savings can be a matter of months.

It is rarely worthwhile to replace a functioning motor. But when installing new equipment or replacing malfunctioning motors, investing in premium efficiency helps you recover your investment in energy savings in a matter of months. Qualified installations can receive an incentive from Energy Trust of Oregon.

Upgrade your cooling system
High-efficiency chillers and air conditioning equipment provide significant benefits in addition to the energy cost savings and greater comfort. Newer equipment uses minimum ozone-depleting refrigerants, reducing potential damage to the ozone layer.

Use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools
Your facilities staff will be able to detect and resolve energy-wasting malfunctions more quickly with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. Problems can often be detected and avoided before they result in wasted energy. These tools provide your staff with immediate feedback on comfort and operational changes.

Install mini-split heat pumps for multifamily properties
These are HVAC devices that both heat and cool and are far more efficient than electric baseboard heating. Owners can also eliminate the use of window AC units since the heat pumps have a cooling capability. They don’t require ductwork, so it’s a great upgrade/renovation choice.

Retrocommissioning
“Retrocommissioning” is another option for tenant occupied buildings, such as office buildings and hotels. This comprehensive process can identify operational problems and opportunities for energy savings. An independent commissioning agent provides a thorough analysis of your building’s systems and how well they work together. The resulting recommendations can lead to energy savings of 5 to 20 percent.

*Your actual results will vary based on energy use and energy-efficiency measures.

When is the right time to replace equipment?
Generally speaking, HVAC equipment lasts about 15 years. Consider replacing your equipment if:

• Your equipment is near the end of its useful life.
• Your facility has expanded, requiring an upgrade to your existing system.
• Your air conditioning costs are high.
• Your existing system is unreliable, difficult to control or provides unsatisfactory space conditioning.