It is much easier and cheaper to design good energy performance into a new process or facility from the beginning than it is to retrofit it later. However, the major opportunity is in challenging the specification and size of what is required in the first instance.
The following steps can be used to implement a systematic approach to EED.
| Step | Description |
| Challenge energy service | It is very important that the user specification for the energy service is correct and not over specified. The energy service is the activity that is required, e.g. lighting or cleaning. Examples are: what steam pressure is required? Is steam required? What compressed air pressure is required? How many air changes are required? It is worthwhile putting effort into this step as it is the basis of all other decisions. |
| Ensure operational control is facilitated | Correct operational control of the entire system is critical to its efficient operation. At the early design stage it is important to consider operational control. Examples are: can load variation be catered for? Can setback occur at night or weekends? Are there local switches so that equipment can be switched off when not in use? Is it maintainable and accessible? etc. |
| Design and challenge distribution system | How will the service be distributed to the user? Is insulation adequate for the specific service? Are special precautions needed to minimize the risk of leakage such as all welded pipelines? etc. |
| Design and challenge generation system(s) | One of the last steps is to specify and design the generation equipment such as boilers, chillers, pumps, air compressors, etc. |
| Design and challenge controls | Ensure that automation is as simple as possible and will be understood by engineering and operational personnel. |
List of measuring equipment
