Benchmarking Tool

Recommissioning (RCx) optimizes existing buildings to improve occupant comfort and save energy. 

Clear Choices to Select School Buildings Amenable to RCx

In a large estate, such as a school, for example, being able to determine which buildings are more or less energy efficient, in comparison to similar buildings, motivates and facilitates prioritizing intervention for RCx projects. To help technicians and engineers make this choice, an energy benchmarking tool for primary and secondary schools was developed.

Download the RCx benchmarking tool (zip file 2,286 kb)

This tool was designed to be used at the planning phase of the standardized RCx process. For additional information, please refer to Chapter 4 of the Recommissioning Guide for Building Owners and Managers.

Benchmarking Methodology

This tool was created during a project completed with Quebec schools. Every year, an energy balance is completed for the schools based on three criteria: 

• Primary heating system
• Presence of mechanical ventilation or cooling
• Presence of heavy shops or a pool

CanmetENERGY completed a statistical analysis of these data, which revealed that a significant difference exists among these three criteria. The analysis helped to define a statistical methodology for pre-selecting buildings that places them in three categories as to the relevance of an RCx project (none, high or very high).

The methodology and classification helped to accelerate and standardize the pre-selection process. The statistical analysis that was carried out, as well as the conclusions and MS-Excel spreadsheet that follow from them, are presented in the Statistical Analysis of Quebec School Board Network Energy Balance from 2004 to 2007 report.

Related links:

• Benchmarking Tool - License Agreement