Commissioning

Commissioning (Cx) is the process of verifying that a building’s systems operate as intended. This includes ensuring the final design and functionality match the owner’s requirements. Commissioned systems might include the following:

  • HVAC

  • lighting and daylighting

  • domestic hot water

  • renewable energy

  • building envelope (BECx)

It can be done on new buildings or on existing buildings, in a process sometimes called retrocommissioning.

Commissioning is likely to yield 5%–10% improvements in energy efficiency by catching mistakes like missing or incorrectly installed equipment. It also helps avoid:

  • occupant complaints and callbacks

  • indoor air quality and thermal comfort problems

  • premature equipment failure

  • litigation

Commissioning

Deep Dives

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  • Verifying Performance with Building Enclosure Commissioning

    Feature Article

    For a lot less than the cost of a lawsuit, BECx uses collaboration, design-to-occupancy reviews, and testing to ensure quality and high performance.

  • Retrocommissioning: Big Savings for Big Buildings

    Feature Article

    Retrocommissioning or RCx can be a valuable tool for commercial building owners. RCx addresses the same scope as new building commissioning but is performed on existing buildings. RCx can improve building performance, save energy and money-especially for large buildings.

  • Cost-Effective Green Retrofits: Opportunities for Savings in Existing Buildings

    Feature Article

    Between lighting, water use, mechanical systems, the building envelope, and occupant health, existing buildings are rife with cost-effective retrofits and operational opportunities that also offer environmental benefits. Improvements range from the painfully obvious to the more complex and involved.

  • Measurement and Verification: Monitoring Building Systems for Optimal Performance

    Feature Article

    Tracking the performance of a building's mechanical and electrical systems is essential for energy savings that persist over time. In this article, EBN explores measurement and verification and explains why demand for these systems is growing. We also explain the LEED® Rating System's evolving treatment of M&V.

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