Describe systems within facilities.

Description includes

  • siting considerations
  • raw materials
  • building envelope
    • insulation
    • roof
    • walls
    • windows

  • heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), including solar-thermal
  • electrical (including solar-photovoltaic [PV])
  • plumbing
  • lighting technology (active and passive [i.e., natural lighting])
  • building automation
  • communications (e.g., Wi-Fi network)
  • security
  • safety
    • fire suppression
    • emergency planning
    • personal protective equipment (PPE)
    • first aid.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • How do building systems affect the demand for energy within the facility?
  • What are the most energy-demanding systems within a facility? How do these differ among various types of facilities?
  • Why is ventilation critical to a healthy indoor environment?