4940 Building

OVERVIEW:

• LEED Enhanced Commissioning
• Building Envelope Commissioning
• System Monitoring
• Utility/Renewable Energy Monitoring
• Utility Rebates

The inception of the 4940 Building revolved around a core mission: tackling pressing concerns related to energy efficiency and eco-friendly construction practices.

This ambitious endeavor set out to meet and exceed the benchmarks laid out by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. In doing so, it aspired to serve as a blueprint for promoting environmental stewardship and prudent energy use within the region.

Taking on the mantle of mechanical, electrical, and technological design services for this project, Morrissey Engineering’s role was instrumental. The attestation of LEED certification underscores their exceptional capabilities in delivering designs that align with the industry’s most stringent criteria for operational efficiency, environmental impact, occupant comfort, and overall functionality.

TUNE: Empowering Success through LEED-Enhanced Commissioning
TUNE, a leading company specializing in LEED-enhanced commissioning services, building envelope commissioning, and system monitoring, played an indispensable and elevating role in the resounding success of the 16,880-square-foot building. Throughout the project, their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence were evident, ensuring continuous improvements propelling the building towards unprecedented energy efficiency. With TUNE’s dedicated efforts, any issues that arose were swiftly and efficiently resolved, guaranteeing that the building not only met, but exceeded its sustainability goals.

To date, the 4940 Building consistently ranks in the top 2 percent of comparable buildings in the country for energy efficiency.

Metrics Showcasing TUNE’s Expertise
Thanks to TUNE’s involvement, the 4940 Building achieved remarkable results. Despite significant growth in both occupancy and size, the building boasts a commendable 20% reduction in utility usage since its establishment, saving approximately 30 MWh of energy annually, which translates to $3,000 in energy cost savings per year.

Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future
The 4940 Building is a remarkable example of environmental responsibility and sustainable design. Its all-electric architecture showcases various innovative solutions to enhance energy efficiency and conservation. TUNE, a key partner in this project, played a pivotal role in ensuring its success, with its unique contributions evident at every stage of development. They meticulously tested all systems before and after installation to validate energy savings, operation, and overall performance. Leveraging continuous data monitoring and trend analysis, TUNE facilitated ongoing improvements, leading to the swift and efficient resolution of the 35 issues that arose during testing. Their expertise and dedication have been instrumental in making the 4940 Building a true model of sustainable construction.

Key building features include:

• Geothermal Heating and Cooling System: The building utilizes a state-of-the-art geothermal heating and cooling system. This technology taps into the Earth’s natural heat to regulate indoor temperatures efficiently and reduce energy consumption.
• Rooftop Solar Installation: Harnessing the power of the sun, the 4940 Building boasts a 25 kW rooftop solar installation. This solar array significantly reduces reliance on conventional energy sources, promoting clean and renewable energy.
• Demand Reduction Programming: The building employs demand reduction programming to ensure energy is utilized with maximum efficiency and without unnecessary waste. This intelligent system optimizes energy usage during peak and off-peak hours, reducing overall energy demands.
• 3D Building Automation Graphic Interface: The 4940 Building features a cutting-edge 3D Building Automation Graphic Interface. This interface enables precise control and monitoring of various systems, enhancing overall energy management.
• Water Conservation Measures: Prioritizing water conservation, the building incorporates rainwater capture and low-flow faucets to minimize water consumption. These eco-friendly features contribute to sustainable water usage.
• Improved Indoor Air Quality: The 4940 Building uses advanced techniques to constantly circulate outdoor air, improving indoor air quality and respiratory health. Multiple Awair Omni sensors are strategically positioned throughout the building to monitor real-time data on temperature, humidity, CO2, VOCs, PM 2.5, sound, and lighting levels. This data empowers Tune to make immediate decisions to positively influence indoor air quality.
• UV-C and GPS Systems: The 4940 Building utilizes UV-C and GPS systems to further improve indoor air quality. UV-C technology helps to eliminate harmful pathogens, viruses, and bacteria from the air, creating a cleaner and healthier environment. Additionally, GPS systems actively monitor and manage air pollutants for an atmosphere that fosters well-being.
• Living Plant Wall Feature: One of the standout features of the building is the living plant wall. This visually appealing green wall adds a touch of natural beauty to the workspace and plays a crucial role in purifying the air. The plants act as natural air filters, removing pollutants and toxins and promoting a healthier and more refreshing ambiance.
• Daylighting and Shade Control Systems: The building maximizes natural illumination and temperature regulation through daylighting and shade control systems. By utilizing natural light effectively, energy demands are further reduced.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: TUNE implemented demand management control programming in the 4940 Building automation system to maintain optimal electricity rates. The system functions normally even when demand goes beyond a predefined threshold in fall, winter, and spring. During summer, when demand restrictions are in place, the system efficiently reduces non-essential loads to meet the targeted kW usage. This approach has allowed for electricity usage and occupancy growth without incurring additional utility costs.
• Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: This facility offers the convenience of two 6 kW charging stations dedicated to electric vehicles for both employees and guests. The EV chargers have been expertly configured by TUNE with the added capability of adjusting capacity during periods of high demand for electricity. This strategic management ensures that the increased energy consumption from EV charging does not result in any penalties from utility providers.

At the 4940 Building, environmental consciousness and sustainable practices are at the core of its design and operation. Embracing these green technologies reduces the building’s carbon footprint and sets an example for a greener and more sustainable future.

“Being an instrumental team member in this project has been incredibly rewarding, as we’ve created one of Omaha’s most efficient and sustainable buildings at its time of construction. As the facility continued to grow in size and number of occupants, it also became more efficient through the use of renewable energy and technology improvements.”
– Jerry McNerney

Post-Commissioning Support for Ongoing Performance
TUNE’s involvement extended beyond commissioning. They provided ongoing support and monitoring services to ensure the building maintained peak performance over time. Communication channels were established to enable immediate responses to emergencies through email-generated alerts from the building’s automation system.

Safeguarding a Green Future
By achieving both LEED Platinum and Energy Star recognition, the 4940 Building has proven to be a trailblazer in sustainable architecture and a positive influence on future development projects in Omaha, Nebraska. Its success is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the project team and TUNE to creating a greener and more sustainable future. This eco-friendly marvel is a testament to human ingenuity and unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future.