Powering Today's Laboratories - When is Enough, Enough?

Don Holden, Clark, Richardson & Biskup Engineers
  
Most electrical services in buildings that house laboratories are oversized. Data gathered and lessons learned on multiple projects show that most electrical systems typically utilize about 25 to 33 percent of the service size. This presentation will show data based on actual readings and information from utility companies that illustrate this usage. This usage results in larger upfront costs than necessary, more use of material, and in many cases, a misuse of energy because of low power factors. Overestimating electrical loads can also have a ripple effect in that air handling units can also be oversized.

This presentation will explore steps that can be taken to achieve more realistic, cost effective use of your electrical system, saving dollars and use of our natural resources. It all starts from the beginning of a project. In order to be successful, the owner, lab user, architect, and engineer must work together. We will share a few tips that will allow you to maximize your use of power.

Biography:

Don Holden has been in the engineering field for 31 years as an electrical designer. He has been with CRB Engineers for 22 years and is currently responsible for the operation of the Carlsbad, California office. For six years Don headed the laboratory division for CRB. Don currently works on laboratory design for clients like Biogen, Pfizer, and Genentech. Don is a past President of the Heart of America IES and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the San Diego chapter if ISPE.

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