Course Description:

For nearly two decades, ‘net-zero’ has been a rallying cry for architects pursuing sustainable design. In 2006, solar and wind energy represented a negligible part of the grid, but in the past 15+ years renewable but intermittent solar and wind have been the fastest growing sources of energy. As we approach 2030, we ask ourselves: is net-zero the right goal or does our goal require more nuance? 

The challenge is that the grid must always strike a balance between energy generation and energy consumption, not just on average over the course of the year. Historically we have maintained this balance by adjusting power plant generation to match the demand; increasingly, we will be turning to buildings to help maintain the balance. This session will offer considerations for building-grid interactions.

1 AIA LU/HSW; 1 GBCI CE hour

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the changes happening to the electric grid and why they can inform how we design buildings

2. Realize how the timing of energy use affects its environmental impact

3. Evaluate which types of strategies can make a building a good “grid citizen”

4. Compare and contrast metrics that can be used to evaluate building interaction with the grid

Presenters: Katie Irwin, Project Manager and Annie Hu, Energy Specialist – Willdan | Contact [email protected]
Provider: Willdan Engineering; Provider Number: 401104281; Course Number: EDAW2203nz

PRESENTERS

Katie Irwin, Project Manager
Willdan, Potomac Edison Energy Efficiency Contractor

Katie Irwin has been a Project Manager with Willdan since November 2020. She works with design teams, building owners, and utilities to optimize building performance through detailed energy modeling and comparative analysis. Katie received her Bachelor of Arts, Architecture and minor in Environmental Design from the University of Minnesota. She is an Allied Member of AIA Potomac Valley.

Annie Hu, Energy Specialist
Willdan, Potomac Edison Energy Efficiency Contractor

Annie Hu is an Energy Specialist at Willdan, working with building owners and design teams to create tailored energy models that highlight the benefits of various energy conservation measures in relation to project goals. She received her M.S. in Civil Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and is a LEED Green Associate.

Potomac Edison is an Annual Partner of AIA Potomac Valley.

Reporting of AIA credits and issuance of certificates will be processed by Willdan.

Registrants will receive Webex viewing instructions in the registration confirmation and via email prior to the webinar.