Developing a Web-based Benchmarking Tool for Laboratories

Paul Mathew, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Abstract:

Developers of benchmarking tools are confronted with some common issues and some unique challenges. This paper will describe the challenges faced by us while developing a web-based benchmarking tool for laboratories. Attributes such as the i) analytical and data visualization capability, and ii) flexibility and usability of the tool are common to any benchmarking effort. The various classification scheme and categories of laboratories, each with its own energy signature, posed a design challenge both for the database as well as data input forms, which was unique to this effort.

The paper will describe both the web interface as well as the underlying analytical framework that allows for a comparative evaluation of aggregated and end-use performance metrics (e.g. kWh/sf and W/cfm) across different laboratories. The overall functionality of the benchmarking tool will be explained vis-à-vis the tools and the technology that were selected for final implementation.

3 Key Points:

• Metrics for benchmarking the energy performance of laboratories
• Key findings from the benchmarking analysis of a sample of laboratories
• Web-based tool for comparative analysis and benchmarking the energy performance of laboratories

Biography:

Paul Mathew is a Staff Scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. He has a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, and a Ph.D. in Building Performance and Diagnostics from Carnegie Mellon University. His work experience includes technical consulting, tool development, and training in energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and risk management. Prior to joining LBNL, he worked at Enron Energy Services and the Center for Building Performance at Carnegie Mellon University.