UMASS LOWELL SAAB ETIC HVAC TURNKEY IMPLEMENTATION
LOWELL, MA
CHALLENGE
The Saab Emerging Technologies & Innovation Center (ETIC) at UMass Lowell, a 100,000-square-foot facility housing research labs and clean rooms, was found to have opportunities for improved control of airflow and temperature in the labs, the addition of occupancy controls, and optimization of fume hood controls. While the building systems were functioning and operating in a safe and effective manner, the building was using considerably more energy than necessary, and there were comfort and other performance-related areas for improvement. All upgrades needed to be performed without disrupting ongoing research activities.
OPPORTUNITY
B2Q Associates conducted an initial EBCx Scoping Study in fall 2022, followed by an investment-grade study in spring 2023. The findings supported a comprehensive Turnkey EBCx project aimed at reducing energy use and strengthening lab performance. Scope included:
Full TAB, including calibration of all airflow devices and fume hoods
Conversion of fume hoods from constant- to variable-volume operation
Installation of occupancy sensors for demand-based airflow control
Re-engineering of all lab sequences of operation and airflow setpoints to meet current use needs, as well as current codes and standards
Optimization of static pressure sequences for AHUs and exhaust systems
Re-engineering of AHU temperature and heat recovery control sequences
Repair and replacement of faulty terminal control devices (actuators, sensors, valves) and controllers
Optimization of boiler controls
Optimization of CHW and HW pumping controls via improved pressure and temperature control
Full commissioning, M&V, and utility incentive administration
The implementation was closely coordinated with university stakeholders and environmental health and safety staff to maintain safety, minimize disruption, and engage lab users throughout the process.
RESULT
B2Q delivered an integrated, performance-focused HVAC solution that supports long-term lab safety, energy savings, and sustainability goals. New sequences enable real-time airflow adjustments and system responsiveness, while occupancy-based setbacks reduce unnecessary energy consumption during off-hours. Final validation was achieved through trend analysis and on-site functional testing.
The project resulted in annual energy savings of 750,000 kWh/year and 21,500 therms/year, and reduced emissions by approximately 530,000 lb CO₂e/year. The project delivers $180,000 in annual energy savings. B2Q also facilitated obtaining a utility incentive of $215,000 for the project, achieving a simple payback of less than one year after incentives.
Market:
Colleges and Universities
Services:
Energy Efficiency and Analysis
Implementation Services
Building Systems
Building Commissioning
