Original air date December 7, 2023

Critical Power: Power generation systems in high-performance buildings

1 AIA CES approved LU available for all attendees upon successful completion of an exam.

Electrical engineers must consider many factors when designing power generation systems. Safety, maintainability, efficiency, code compliance, and economics play crucial roles in determining the topology of a power generation system. Specific requirements for power vary based on building occupancy type, facility use and critical function.

When designing power generation systems for high-performance buildings, engineers must not only ensure that the electrical systems that they support are appropriate for the specific application, but also design with consideration to the environmental and occupant impact. Decisions such as the energy source, the location of the equipment and treatment of the emissions and all weigh heavily when designing within the expectations of high-performing buildings.


Learning objectives:

  • Understand the overall impact of generating system design decisions on the environment, sustainability and energy conservation.
  • Learn about characteristics of high-performance buildings that are affected by generator system designs.
  • Understand the NFPA requirements for the core of an emergency system and what is considered an acceptable power supply for emergency power systems.
  • Review case studies that showcase power generation system implementation.

Presented By:
Danna Jensen, PE, LEED AP, Principal, Certus
Hunter Koch, Associate, Certus

Moderated By:
Amara Rozgus, Content Manager, CFE Media and Technology