The aim of the project was to develop an understanding of the current HVAC markets in different strategically important regions of the world and to develop a forecast on the development of these markets until 2020. In order to achieve this, Ecofys merged and cross-checked data from statistics and reports (e.g. types of systems used, number of buildings etc.) with bottom up model calculations (e.g. regarding the heating or cooling demand of buildings), leading to a consistent and reliable picture. As a result the report holds extensive information about the current situation in the mentioned countries. On that basis we made forecasts on size, structure and the type of HVAC markets in these regions in 2020, allowing our client to develop a proactive business strategy based on sound research.

Universities and colleges are increasingly focused on the issue campus sustainability. In the United States, many have signed the President’s Climate Commitment agreement, pledging to be climate neutral by 2050. Willamette University, a large academic institution located in Salem, Oregon, is one example. In 2012, Ecofys was contracted by Willamette University to develop a long-range sustainable energy strategy. The goal of the project is to provide a comprehensive campus-wide energy vision that can guide the university towards its ambitious greenhouse gas emission targets. The work involved a detailed assessment of the stakeholder landscape and building-level energy consumption, as well as validation of the university’s carbon footprint. Ecofys used this information to develop a site-specific set of criteria for rating campus sustainability projects that is based on a combination of cost-effectiveness, regional policy, and stakeholder values. The framework was applied by Ecofys to assess various sustainability projects throughout the campus including building-integrated renewable energy technology, advanced energy efficiency measures, procurement of carbon offsets, and campus-wide behavioral campaigns. The result is a set of no-regret actions Ecofys advises the university pursue in order to move towards its goal of climate neutrality. Ecofys continues to work with Willamette University. Most recently, Ecofys compiled a comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory for the campus, and developed educational resources that will enable the university to efficiently complete the process on its own moving forward.

Costing optimal building performance requirements for European Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (eceee)