Decarbonization Planning Guide

The implementation phase is the execution of the design and construction of your decarbonization project. As noted in RMI’s Retrofit Depot: Managing Deep Energy Retrofits, which has some additional information on the implementation phase, the “careful attention to construction and commissioning during the [implementation] process will improve the profitability and overall outcome of [your] project.”  

1. During implementation, be sure to track (or have your owner’s representative track) how key components of the project are being built, and ensure that the construction team is working with the design team and your commissioning team so that the M&V plan is being executed at the correct time. For example, before exterior walls are sealed up, the commissioning agent or verifier should ensure the specified amount of insulation was installed, the insulation was installed correctly, air barriers are in the proper place, and caulking has been applied to gaps in the walls for air sealing. 
2. After mechanical and electrical systems are in place, the commissioning process begins. Commissioning agents will verify that controls have been put in place per the engineer’s specifications, and in alignment with the decarbonization goals. 
3. Pay attention to important considerations that may disrupt operation. This may include impacts on staging needs, project schedule, or environmental considerations due to construction. Be clear upfront while selecting a design and construction team the needs and required coordination to fit within your needs to minimize disturbances and interruption to your buildings use and services.   
4. In many business-as-usual projects, the project may end after commissioning and project closeout is complete. However, in a decarbonization project, the process will now continue to the Evaluation phase.