Consulting-Specifying Engineer - July 2008 - (Page 16)

M/E Roundtable integrated package. KUPPINGER: I touched on it above and can expand, but basically the systems require valuable space that does not obtain monthly rent, and the capital cost of these systems causes ROIs that far exceed what typical class “A” or “B” developers will invest in or tenants will pay for. CSE: How are current codes, standards, and environmental impact issues affecting the implementation of on-site power strategies? FLICKINGER: One would presume with the enactment of EPACT 2005, where net metering was mandated, there would have been a proliferation of alternative energy sources. However, this not the case; the complexity and definition of “net metering” as regulated by individual state and public utility boards is a challenge. EPA has enacted more stringent air quality standards for diesel generators. As the generators are required to be Tier 4 by 2011, there will be fewer economically viable opportunities for this type of generator, particularly for “base loaded” applications. KUPPINGER: There was a code change in Illinois and a past client, UBS, was required to provide an air-sampling system and increase the level of diesel fuel monitoring and alarm. CSE: How is the current utility environment affecting the implementation of on-site power systems? KUPPINGER: Utility companies have traditionally not allowed the direct connection of on-site generation equipment to their electrical grid. On-site generation typically is not connected to the grid and requires a short “outage.” The primary reason the utility did not allow direct connection or “closed transition” of on-site generation into the grid is that problems on the customer equipment could cause an outage to the entire area. We have seen this happen on the East Coast a few years back, when the operations of a single utility plant caused the surrounding grid to become unstable and ultimately fail. The IEEE has developed improved standards, and pressure from multiple areas has forced utility companies to be more accommodating. Closed transition requires sophisticated switch gear, power breakers, and relay systems that were expensive and caused risk concerns. Input #210 at csemag.com/quickResponse http://www.uecorp.com http://www.uecorp.com http://csemag.com/quickResponse

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Consulting-Specifying Engineer - July 2008

Consulting-Specifying Engineer - July 2008 Contents Viewpoint Letters News M/E Roundtable 40 Under 40 Using Demand-Based Reset Strategies VFDs and Motors: Making the Right Match Grounding and Bonding Practices for Hazardous Areas Codes & Standards Case Study New Products Equipment Lifecycles Advertiser Index Green Space

Consulting-Specifying Engineer - July 2008

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