Guide to Performance Contracting with ESCOs. Building Technologies Program.

摘要

A performance contract allows you to improve the energy performance of your building by partnering with an energy services company (ESCO) to enhance building operations and save energy. An ESCO is a company that identifies energy improvements, provides the capital required and installs improvements, offers turn-key installation services, and guarantees energy savings. Companies pay the ESCO back over a period of years from the energy cost savings generated from the project. The ESCO monitors the performance of the project for the life of the contract and verifies the energy savings which result. In some cases, the ESCO may also operate and maintain the new equipment and systems. Hiring an ESCO is a proven strategy for identifying and implementing energy saving capital improvements, while managing risks inherent in such projects. ESCOs can provide a range of services, from an energy audit to a third-party financed turn-key project with a comprehensive set of measures and guaranteed energy savings. Their specialty is the performance contract that shifts some of the projects performance risk to the ESCO in exchange for allowing the ESCO to capture a share of the savings. Key benefits to working with ESCOs include improved building performance, options for project financing and risk management, and access to expertise, new equipment and training with little to no upfront cost. Performance contracts can apply to an individual building, campuses, or whole portfolios. This guide describes the benefits offered by ESCOs and the things to consider when selecting and contracting with your provider. ESCOs have long served government markets. Performance contracting can be an effective investment approach for the private sector as well.