What is CampusCoach?
CampusCoach is a data-driven project developed by CUNY BPL to help campuses reduce energy consumption, operating costs, and greenhouse gas emissions. Supported by NYSERDA’s Clean Green Campus program, the project provides a “how-to” framework for facilities staff to optimize existing HVAC systems through affordable, no-cost or low-cost operational improvements.
The CampusCoach project is characterized by the following key elements:
Proven Methodology:
The strategies are based on the Building Re-tuning™(BRT) methodology developed by the Pacific Northwest National Library, which has demonstrated average energy savings of 14% at the building level.
Ongoing Commissioning:
It establishes a continuous, season-after-season process for identifying and pursuing operational optimizations at the central plant, campus, and building levels.
Data-Driven Coaching:
The project leverages data from Building Automation Systems (BAS) and specialized tools like the Building Operator Coaching Solution (BOCS) to provide actionable insights through live training and collaborative workshops.
Flexible Implementation Models:
Facilities managers can choose to execute the process internally, engage a third party, or collaborate with on-campus faculty and students.
Educational Integration:
For campuses involving students, the project includes a structured instructional program with class modules and independent study guides focused on building science and HVAC optimization.
Collaborative Approach:
Success is built on strong partnerships and open dialogue between project teams, facilities management, and operating engineers to ensure recommended strategies are both practical and impactful.
CampusCoach Handbook
Download here
Who is the intended audience for the CampusCoach Handbook?
The CampusCoach Handbook is a “how-to” guide developed primarily for building operators and energy managers to assist in their energy management efforts. Additionally, it is intended to guide engineering faculty and students who may serve in supporting roles.
Specifically, the handbook is designed for:
- Facilities staff, as it provides a framework for optimizing HVAC systems through no-cost or low-cost operational improvements.
- Upper-level undergraduate and Master’s students, who are the target for the project’s structured instructional program and independent study guides.
- Program Managers, identified as the head of facilities management or their delegate, who oversee the long-term “ongoing commissioning” process.