"Energy Efficiency" is a thriving sector, topping the 2010 list in number of cleantech venture deals. On March 30, 2011, AGRION hosted Energy Efficiency Software Applications: From Analytics to Power Management to discuss the plethora of options available for measuring and then managing commercial energy use. An overshadowed yet critical prerequisite for these applications is a Building Automation System (BAS), which typically controls ventilation, lighting, power, fire systems, and security systems.

In this meeting, AGRION will evaluate the business case for the installation and use of a Building Automation System from the perspective of building owners/managers. We will also look at the BAS market with its opportunities, dominant players, and strategic partnerships.

09:00am:    Networking Breakfast

09:30am:    Panel Discussion Begins

1.    Making the Business Case: New BAS Installations and Upgrades

• What is the average cost per square foot for a new BAS? Energy savings and ROI claims are often inflated and dependent on multiple variables. Are 5-10% for energy savings and a 2-10 year payback reasonable figures?
• Do the soft ROIs of improved occupant comfort and lower liability have a tangible effect on the bottom line?
• Existing lifespan of BASs is 10-15 years while building systems typically last 25-30 years. How costly are upgrades and is the payback compelling?
• Is a BAS mandatory (in practice) for seeking LEED status or deploying BEMS (Building Energy Management System)?
• Is there ever a business case NOT to install or upgrade a BAS?
• What federal, state and local incentives are in place for the installation or upgrade of a BAS?

2.    Getting Down to the Nuts and Bolts: Installation, Training, Operation, and Maintenance

• With every building having a slightly different design and systems, how straightforward are BAS installations - best case/worst case? What workarounds are available for buildings with older, possibly proprietary controls?
• With BACnet and ZigBee now able to work in concert, BASs are moving from wired to wireless. How much physical wiring is still required?
• How much training is available for "Basement Bob" for daily use and ongoing maintenance? Is 3rd party support necessary? Available?

3.    BAS Market Snapshot: Domestic/International Opportunities, Sales Cycle, Strategic Partnerships, Looking Ahead

• What portion of buildings by facility-type have yet to adopt BASs in the US? Internationally?
• What elements go into a successful sales cycle? Who are the decision makers, what do they need to hear, and how long does the process take?
• What are some recent, notable strategic partnerships in this industry? How are companies thinking creatively to position themselves and ensure a healthy customer pipeline?
• BASs are moving beyond controlling air conditioning and lighting. What are some forward thinking “out of the box” features that are or are planned to be components of new BASs?

11:00am:    Audience Q&A

11:30am:    Networking

12:00pm:    End of Meeting

Speakers:

BuildingIQ, Joel Weingarten, Product Management Leader
Enovity Inc., Jonathan Soper, Principal

LonMark International/Open ADR Alliance, Barry Haaser, Marketing & Management/Managing Director
Redwood Systems, Michael A. Sanjurjo, National Accounts Executive

Moderator:

E3 Regenesis Solutions, Inc. (E3RS), James T. Caldwell. Ph.D., President/CEO

Download the Agenda

Location and Directions:

Garden Court Hotel @ 520 Cowper St. in Palo Alto, CA

Driving: From 101 (North or South): Exit University Avenue, go west. Make a left onto Cowper Street. Hotel is on the right-hand side on the first block.
From 280 (North or South): Exit Sand Hill Road, head east. Turn right onto Arboretum Road. Make a left onto Palm, which turns into University Avenue. Turn right onto Cowper Street. Hotel is on the right side on the first block.

Public Transit:Take Caltrain to the Palo Alto stop. Upon leaving the train station follow University Avenue 0.4 miles (6 blocks) to Cowper St. and turn right. The Garden Court is half of a block down on the right hand side.

Registration:

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