StoreEnergy solutions case study · Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Bryn Mawr College HVAC Controls Modernization
Beginning in 2003, Bryn Mawr College carried out a five-year controls modernization across a 50-building, 120-acre campus. The project retained about 3,000 existing control points, added networked monitoring and supported demand-response participation.
The challenge
Bryn Mawr College wanted to replace an aging DOS-based HVAC controls environment while preserving useful existing infrastructure. The campus also wanted buildings to communicate without installing extensive new hard wiring or fiber through masonry construction.
The modernization had to be staged around available funding, work across multiple campus buildings and remain flexible enough to incorporate existing controls during the transition.
A staged controls modernization
The college selected a Windows-based American Auto-Matrix controls platform that could work with existing equipment. That compatibility allowed approximately 3,000 installed control points to remain in service while controllers were replaced over the five-year plan.
The Tustin Group took over system installation and integration after difficulties earlier in the project. Tustin configured the platform around the college’s operating requirements and staged the work across the campus.
Campus-wide communication without new network cabling
Tustin worked with a local software company on a wireless approach that used the college’s existing campus network to connect building systems. This avoided the need to route extensive new network cabling through cinderblock, plaster and brick walls.
The resulting interface allowed mechanics to review building conditions, diagnose issues and adjust operating parameters from computers connected to the campus network.
Reported operational results
The original case study reports that, during the modernization period, Bryn Mawr increased its cooled square footage by 16% without a significant increase in energy consumption or facilities staff. College personnel also reported faster response to occupant complaints and improved ability for mechanics to manage assigned building zones.
These outcomes are statements reported by college representatives in the source case study; the document does not include an independent energy audit or underlying consumption dataset.
Using connected controls for demand response
After establishing the integrated controls platform, Tustin customized software that connected the system to the demand-response provider used by the college at that time. Facilities personnel could review market information, select loads and adjust temperature set points or equipment schedules without disrupting campus operations.
The source reports that one year of program revenue helped fund campus conservation initiatives, including a windmill demonstration, lighting for incoming students, a carbon-footprint study and heating improvements in three dormitories. No exact revenue amount is provided.
Planning a campus controls modernization?
Talk with The Tustin Group about staged controls integration, remote visibility and building energy management.