Multifamily Strategic Energy Management

Absolutely! You can participate in MCE’s SEM program even with existing solar and/or energy storage solutions. Many SEM participants with such systems have found additional opportunities to improve their energy management efforts. The program offers educational resources and support for those interested in exploring or planning for solar and energy storage solutions. You can discuss your specific needs and interests with your dedicated energy coach.

Yes, MCE’s SEM program identifies and offers energy-saving opportunities in both electric and natural gas consumption.

Most organizations save between 3% and 5% in the first year of participating in MCE’s SEM program, with some saving much more. Throughout the two-year program, organizations have reported impressive savings of up to 15%. Actual savings depend on the number of implemented energy-saving projects and the level of engagement from the energy team and employees. More projects and active involvement increase the potential for savings.

No, MCE’s SEM program does not require a capital investment. The program focuses on implementing low- to no-cost energy savings measures to generate energy savings. SEM program emphasizes continuous improvement rather than a single retrofit. However, some organizations may choose to make capital investments to achieve even greater levels of energy savings.

Your energy coach will work closely with you and your staff to identify various opportunities for energy savings. These measures encompass behavioral modifications, retro-commissioning, and improvements in operations and maintenance. Behavioral changes can be as straightforward as ensuring doors, windows, and louvers are properly closed, or more involved like optimizing equipment schedules and setpoints. Retro-commissioning focuses on assessing building systems to ensure they operate as efficiently as intended, identifying any areas where improvements can be made. Operations and maintenance changes may involve tasks like replacing filters, repairing leaks, and conducting regular inspections of fans and belts.

Together, these measures contribute to significant energy savings without requiring substantial financial investments.

MCE’s SEM program operates in 2-year cycles, and the time commitment for each participant may vary. We understand that your staff is already stretched thin, so the program’s objective is not to burden them with additional work. Instead, it aims to complement their existing efforts by introducing new strategies and checklists to achieve low- to no-cost energy savings.

While the level of staff involvement can influence the extent of energy savings achieved, we strive to ensure that participation remains manageable and beneficial. As an incentive, participants can earn milestone payments totaling up to $6,000 per 2-year program cycle. These payments are rewarded for attending recurring check-in meetings, engaging in educational modules, and providing relevant energy and site-specific data as required such as solar and production data.

Throughout the two-year program cycle, SEM also offers a range of educational modules and site-specific activities aimed at supporting the participants’ energy management efforts.

There is no cost for your organization to participate in MCE’s SEM program. We understand the varying bandwidth of different organizations. The program is designed to be flexible to accommodate your needs. While we offer incentives for active participation, sharing energy data, and implementing energy-saving changes, there are no penalties. The program focuses on fostering a collaborative and supportive environment to help organizations achieve their energy-saving goals without imposing punitive measures.

A Treasure Hunt is a collaborative site visit involving your energy team, energy coach, and engineering team. During this visit, we will collectively examine your facility through an “energy management lens” to pinpoint areas of energy waste and opportunities for savings – the hidden treasures that can result in reduced energy bills, improved equipment performance, and significant energy savings.

No, there is no requirement to implement specific energy-saving projects. Your energy coach will provide guidance on the identified opportunities, but the final decision to pursue any of them rests with you and your organization. You have the freedom to choose which opportunities, if any, you would like to pursue.

Yes, your dedicated energy coach will guide you through how to establish an effective energy team. Building this team and setting up energy goals will play a crucial role in successfully integrating energy management practices into your organization. Below are some sample energy team roles and responsibilities that can help you get started on the right track.