The National Center for Energy Management and Building Technologies (NCEMBT) is seeking proposals for applied research and development of building and HVAC technologies systems that will demonstrate energy efficiency in existing and new buildings by means that are economically viable and market transforming.

NCEMBT is an independent, non-profit research and education institution that "recognizes it is not sufficient to simply sponsor and conduct quality research on energy management and building technologies, but to develop market strategies for its transfer and implementation," said chief operating officer Anthony Picarazzi.  "Our mission is to lead the market, not simply inform it."

Picarazzi said successful research and development grants in the past ranged from $35,000 to $1.4 million.  To achieve its five year roadmap goal of 70% building energy efficiency in existing and new institutional, commercial and residential structures, the NCEMBT board of directors has authorized, subject to congressional approval, approximately $4 million in strategic applied research projects with the purpose that will:
  • Demonstrate a 20% reduction in Energy Required (ER) compared to the current baseline in buildings through measures that reduce envelope and internal loads.
  • Demonstrate 20% reduction in Energy Waste (EW) compared to the current baseline in buildings caused by deficiencies in design concepts and details, and by deficiencies in construction.
  • Demonstrate a 20% reduction in EW compared to the current baseline in buildings caused by deficiencies in operations and maintenance procedures during the life of the building.
  • Demonstrate a 20% improvement in occupant response or performance resulting from enhanced control of thermal, lighting, acoustic and/or IAQ technologies.
  • Demonstrate successful market transformation through adoption of the technologies, standards and/or processes developed by NCEMBT and its partners.
NCEMBT research focuses upon the already built environment which comprises over 80% of the buildings that will be in service over the next 30 years, whereas AHSRAE 90, LEED and most other energy policy focuses on buildings yet to be built. "We saw a need for the current building stock to be addressed – and with these grants, we are addressing that need," concluded Picarazzi.

For more information on how to apply, please contact Davor Novosel, chief technology officer at 703-299-5633 or visit www.ncembt.org.