Keeping operating costs under control while maintaining occupant comfort is a constant balancing act. Fortunately, when used strategically, existing building systems can generate financial benefits. Demand response options like the DR Leeway Option put those systems to work without major capital investment and with no impact on building operation.
The potential is already there
Energy savings are often associated with new equipment or costly modernization projects. But in many cases, commercial buildings already have the equipment needed to improve overall building performance.
Heating, ventilation and air‑conditioning (HVAC) systems and building management and automation technologies can reduce power demand during peak demand events and create value.
A proven approach
Many organizations have already implemented a DR option to lower their electricity costs while maintaining operational efficiency.
- Beneva received a credit of nearly $25,000 for a single winter season by optimizing the coordination of a heat pump, thermal storage unit and backup electric furnace.
- IGA Convivio reduced its power demand by approximately 1,100 kW over one winter season and received nearly $70,000 in credits without disrupting its operations or compromising food quality.
Taking action when it matters most with a DR Option
The principle behind demand response is simple. During peak demand events, when demand for electricity is at its highest, participating organizations temporarily reduce the electricity use of selected building systems to help relieve pressure on the grid.
These events last only a few hours, for a maximum of 100 hours each winter. Organizations receive advance notice so they can easily plan and automate the necessary measures.
In exchange, participants receive credits based on the power demand reductions they achieve.
Easy‑to‑implement measures
Many commercial buildings have more opportunities to reduce their power demand than you might think. Examples include:
- Slightly adjusting heating or ventilation during a peak demand event
- Preheating certain areas before an event to store enough heat to maintain occupant comfort during the reduction period
- Temporarily changing the settings of selected mechanical systems
- Automating these actions through a building management system
Because the measures rely on existing building systems, they are generally easy to implement and have little impact on occupant comfort. In many cases, small adjustments are all it takes.
Getting started at your own pace with the DR Leeway Option
The DR Leeway Option is designed to support a progressive approach tailored to each building’s capabilities and operational needs.
Participation can be customized:
- 20 to 100 hours of peak demand events each winter
- 5 or 7 days a week
This flexibility makes it possible to start gradually, test different measures and refine them over time based on the results.
The more hours an organization participates in peak demand events, the higher the credit it receives for each kilowatt curtailed. The payment at the end of winter is calculated based on the reduction in power demand.
What’s more, financial support is available to cover 75% to 90% of eligible costs to automate demand response strategies, helping organizations put measures in place and maximize the credits they receive.
Supporting long‑term building performance
The DR Leeway Option can be seamlessly integrated into building operations and become a key driver to improve overall performance. In addition to reducing operating costs while maintaining occupant comfort, it frees up funds that can be reinvested in building upgrades, system optimization or new projects. It’s an effective way to maximize the value of your real estate assets.
