by Abdullah Khaliqi
Filling the role of owner’s engineer, Fitzemeyer & Tocci Associates, Inc. (F&T) played a crucial part in a project to upgrade ventilation and bring cooling to classrooms in the Kenneth C Coombs School in Mashpee, Mass. Upgrading the HVAC system, meeting energy efficiency goals, and maximizing the project budget through securing utility incentives were all considerations for this project. F&T’s role as owner’s engineer involves a blend of technical expertise, project management skills, a deep understanding of energy efficiency programs, and close collaboration with owners to help achieve and define long-term goals.
Designing an Upgraded HVAC System
With a clear understanding of the existing conditions, gained from field investigations, F&T collaborated with the town to design an upgraded HVAC system that would improve ventilation and bring cooling to classrooms. The most efficient way to accomplish this was with a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System. Installing one with the existing structure required forethought.
F&T emphasized the importance of integrating the project with considerations from the owner. Losing educational space and increasing audible distractions were both aspects that needed to be minimized. Rooms were investigated individually, and two approaches were chosen. Where room ceilings could accommodate, ceiling-mounted units were installed to offer cooling and increased ventilation. Where room ceilings could not accommodate ceiling-mounted units, floor-mounted units were placed in the corner of the room and the smallest possible closet was built around equipment to offer acoustical dampening and keep equipment behind a locked door.
Maximizing the Project Budget through Utility Incentives
The Kenneth C Coombs School library
A key aspect of F&T’s contribution was the expertise in navigating utility incentive programs and coordinating closely with the utility company. Utility companies often offer financial incentives for projects that implement energy-saving measures, but securing these incentives requires an understanding of the program’s requirements and the ability to demonstrate the projected energy savings.
F&T took the lead in identifying applicable utility incentive programs and ensuring that the project met all necessary criteria. This involved detailed documentation of the proposed energy-saving measures, including calculations of expected energy reductions and cost savings. F&T also managed the application process, coordinating with utility representatives and providing any additional information required to secure the incentives. The close coordination with the utility company meant that the basis of design included equipment that was pre-approved for these incentives and the project ultimately received more than $250,000 in utility incentives.
As owner’s engineer, F&T played a pivotal role in upgrading the HVAC system, meeting energy efficiency goals, and maximizing the project budget. Through careful assessment, design collaboration, and securing utility incentives, F&T ensured that the project was both technically successful and financially sustainable, delivering long-term benefits to the town of Mashpee.
Abdullah Khaliqi
Abdullah Khaliqi, PE, CPQ is principal and academic market leader at Fitzemeyer & Tocci Associates, Inc.
