Commissioning
Commissioning ensures that a facility performs according to its design and the needs of its owners and occupants. This process is an important aspect to Federal energy management for both new and existing facilities.
However, commissioning is rarely performed to the level needed for success. Instead, buildings are turned over to operations and maintenance (O&M) staff with minimal training, incomplete documentation, and problems already in place. As a result, systems degrade quickly as well as the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the facility.
This section outlines the importance of commissioning through the following:
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Types of Commissioning: Overview of the various forms of commissioning for both new and existing buildings.
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Commissioning Process: Outline of the four-step process that encapsulates typical commissioning projects.
Commissioning training is also available through FEMP. The on-demand training outlines processes to resolve operating problems, improve comfort, optimize energy use, and identify retrofits.
Chapter 7 of the FEMP O&M Best Practices Guide outlines commissioning in detail. The full guide
is also available.