Dynamic Optimization: Reducing Central Utility Plant Consumption by Over 50 Percent

Abstract

This article describes the best practices employed in the systematic
upgrade, operation and maintenance of a central utility plant (CUP) and
associated energy infrastructure. The CUP provides electrical, heating
and cooling services to a 1.4 million square foot super-regional shopping
mall in Central Pennsylvania. Since EnergyWorks’ acquisition in late 2003,
numerous improvements have been made that include:
1. Selective equipment upgrades
2. Automation of best practices in operation and maintenance
3. Designing and installing an energy management system for real-
time dynamic optimization.
These improvements not only reduced the plant energy consump-
tion by over 50%; they also reduced the carbon footprint by over 11 mil-
lion pounds per year. With advanced energy management systems in
place, the shopping mall is assured of a healthy, efficient and sustainable
energy service.