IAB News Round-Up, Fall 2023

“Xcel Energy—Colorado today announced a plan that will continue to transform the state’s energy mix, meeting customers’ energy needs while continuing to lead the clean energy transition and providing affordable, reliable service. The company’s Clean Energy Plan proposes to double the amount of renewable energy on the system and invests up to $15 billion across Colorado, while taking advantage of $10 billion in Inflation Reduction Act tax credit benefits to reduce costs and support customers, communities, and workers in the state.”

“A key piece to the region’s clean energy future is rising in Brooklyn’s Vinegar Hill neighborhood on the banks of the East River. Con Edison is building the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub, a transmission substation that will strengthen New York’s power grid, help meet the region’s growing demand for electricity, and serve as a gateway for offshore wind power. Utilizing renewable energy sources, the hub will serve as a critical plug-in point for future offshore wind infrastructure. The hub will be able to accommodate up to 1,500 megawatts or enough electricity to power 750,000 homes.”

“Belimo, a manufacturer of field devices for the energy-efficient control of HVAC systems, has launched its RetroFIT+ program, designed to help customers maximize building efficiency and contribute to a greener future.

RetroFIT+ is the next iteration of the Belimo retrofit program, which offers online resources, including a product-selection tool, as well as personal support to provide quick and easy access to HVAC replacement solutions for actuators, valves, and sensors, the company said in a press release. The replacement solutions ensure that systems function reliably with the proper control of hydronic loops and air distribution, and they boost the performance and efficiency of building systems, enhance comfort levels, reduce carbon emissions, and can deliver significant energy savings, the company said.”

“In recent years, electric vehicles (EV) have gained a lot of momentum, with an increasing number of individuals, businesses, and organizations recognizing the benefits of transitioning to more sustainable transportation options. As a result, many facilities are faced with the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure. However, incorporating this infrastructure can be complex and challenging.

One of the foremost challenges facilities face is accurately predicting the amount of charging infrastructure necessary. While fleet operations can often ascertain the direct number of EVs through client/operator discussions, this is not always feasible for other use cases. Many facilities lack precise data on the number of EV users, be it employees or visitors. In such scenarios, a more sophisticated approach is required.