Every successful project starts with a framework. A vision statement. A blueprint. The staff of Engineered Systems is proud to present The Blueprint — a monthly Q&A interview with HVACR engineering’s leading voices. These one-on-one discussions examine the trade’s history, current industry trends, the factors shaping the sector’s future, and more.
In this Blueprint Q&A, Martha Larson, director of sustainability, RMF Engineering, shares what the IRA means to RMF and how the firm intends to use it going forward.
Engineered Systems: How will this legislation impact your firm in the short term and long term?
Larson: As a society, we can’t achieve ambitious emissions reduction goals without also curbing continued emissions growth. In the short term, we anticipate we’ll begin to see more clients incorporating low- or zero-carbon goals into new construction project requirements. The IRA dedicates significant funding to development of a zero building energy code, which, if successful, will impact a large portion of our building design projects. Electrical systems will be designed to accommodate more electric vehicle charging stations and all-electric heating and cooling equipment. More projects will incorporate on-site renewable energy production or require tie-in points for future addition of clean energy systems. Smart buildings and other enhanced building controls will become more common. Energy codes will continue to evolve, and many jurisdictions may implement stretch codes that go above and beyond state requirements. New technologies will develop, and existing technologies will improve. The engineers at RMF will need to stay on top of all those changes, which makes this an incredibly exciting time to be in our field.
Over the longer term, we’ll see many of today’s energy decarbonization master plans move through implementation. Campus-scale energy decarbonization projects generally have a five- to 20-year timeline consisting of multiple projects broken up into phases. There will be opportunities for us to engage in long-term partnerships with clients throughout all phases of a multi-year energy system transition. As technology advances, we will continue to evolve our approach to these projects.
Read the entire interview on Engineered Systems’ website.
ON THE INTERNET
Percussive Maintenance is defined as the use of physical concussion, such as a knock or a tap, in an attempt to make a malfunctioning device (or person) work. In Engineered Systems’ Percussive Maintenance podcast, we’re poised to do much more than rattle the engineering industry’s exterior; we’re digging deeper into the subjects and topics that matter most with some of the industry’s most influential names.
In the latest episode, Josh Keeling, vice president of advanced projects and strategy, Generac, introduces us to virtual power plants and predicts the impact they may have on America’s energy future.
Click here to listen to the latest episode of the Percussive Maintenance podcast.
The Evolution of Health Care Design
Chris Roman, director of business development, Conservant Systems, shares how the state of health care design has changed over the last 15 years.
See the video on Engineered Systems’ website.
Today’s Boiler Magazine
The magazine of the American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA), Today’s Boiler, reaches 16,057 engineers with hydronic/steam heat system design/specification influence. Dedicated to the advancement and growth of the boiler and combustion equipment industry, Today’s Boiler targets consulting, mechanical, and facility engineers. The January 2023 issue of Today’s Boiler will be available in print and digitally, making it accessible to boilermakers, installers, and designers 24/7. To read the latest issue, click here.