ASHRAE has been placing more emphasis on design engineering and operating data of central plants since the 2000 handbook, Chapter 4 publication. Prior to then, it was difficult to find guidelines that focused on the advantages, disadvantages, system analysis, and selection of both heating and cooling central plants.
Since that time there have been forums, seminars, and symposiums on central plant design, commissioning, and O&M. As I followed along and, at times, participated in these discussions, I have come across a good publication titled Chilled Water Plant Design Guide, published by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Pacific Energy Center on what I believe is the full agenda of what ASHRAE is doing.