Every successful project starts with a framework. A vision statement. A blueprint. The editors of Engineered Systems are proud to present The Blueprint — a monthly Q&A interview with HVACR engineering’s leading voices. These one-on-one discussions will examine the trade’s history, current industry trends, the factors shaping the sector’s future, and more.

Recently, Mark Lessans, director of regulatory and environmental affairs, Johnson Controls, sat down with Engineered Systems editor-in-chief, Herb Woerpel, to discuss the rising role of decarbonization, introduce us to the OpenBlue Healthy Buildings solution, and more.

Engineered Systems: Decarbonization is a major trend in the HVACR industry. Why is this so, and why is it so important that the industry gets this right?

Lessans: Decarbonization is not just a major trend in the HVACR industry, it is the major trend. Buildings are responsible for roughly 40% of greenhouse gas emissions globally, and HVAC equipment is easily responsible for half of those emissions. Addressing climate change in earnest requires putting buildings on a pathway to net zero, which cannot be achieved without deep decarbonization of HVAC end uses. It’s through this lens that I view future innovations in HVAC equipment and operation, and, frankly, decarbonization is what will keep the industry relevant.

What makes this trend so exciting is thinking about how the HVAC industry fits into the broader decarbonization picture. There are so many different technology applications in this space that the optimal solution will change from building to building. And it’s not just about the building. There’s an interplay with the grid — modifying loads to source the lowest-carbon energy possible and contributing to grid reliability — that impacts overall emissions. Decarbonization is a giant engineering systems problem in which buildings, their HVAC systems, and the grid have an important role to play. There’s no question in my mind that we are moving toward a near-zero emissions economy. If the HVAC industry focuses on solutions to decarbonize building operations, it has a chance to write its own future.

Engineered Systems: In what ways is Johnson Controls embracing decarbonization?

Lessans: When you look across the Johnson Controls portfolio of building technologies, from HVAC equipment and systems to sensors, controls, building automation systems, and digital connectivity platforms, like OpenBlue, we are second to none in our ability to deliver a comprehensive net-zero building. So, we are really leaning into our role as a solutions provider for building decarbonization.

The trend in building decarbonization is at an inflection point, and, internally, we have been working through all of the anticipated technology capabilities that will be needed today and in the future to ensure we have as many applications covered as possible. We’re also looking at new ways to go to market with decarbonization solutions by leveraging the guaranteed performance, as-a-service models we have already mastered for energy efficiency.

Read the entire interview on Engineered Systems’ website.