YPG Presents District Energy 102

YPG Presents - District Enegy 101

District Energy 102

Presented by the IDEA Young Professionals Group (YPG)
Monday, February 3, 2025
1:00pm - 3:30 EST.

Are you just getting started in the District Energy industry and want a deeper review of key industry topics? Are you a professional with less than 10 years in the field, eager to broaden your industry expertise?
 
If so, we have a preconference event you’ll want to attend. Join us for District Energy 102, a free workshop presented by YPG (Young Professionals Group), taking place from 1:00pm – 3:30 pm at CampusEnergy2025.
District Energy 102 builds off last year's Introduction to District Energy session (given at CampusEnergy2024), with an overview of a new set of topics integral to the industry. You’ll connect and learn among others with similar experience in the industry, learning the basics behind key District Energy components to better prepare you for CampusEnergy2025 and beyond.
 
Joining us for District Energy102 will enhance the learning experience as you get ready to fully immerse yourself in the conference program. In DE102, topics discussed include Data & Analytics, Thermal Distribution Systems, and Heat Pumps & Geothermal. There will also be time to ask questions and mingle with fellow young professionals in District Energy. Come early, bring questions, and enjoy learning with fellow young professionals before the main conference kicks off! 
In addition, IDEA has invited a large contingent of students to join with us, to gain a better understanding of the industry in hopes of showing them the tremendous benefits to a career in district energy. We encourage YPG in attendance to offer their insights as well - who knows? They could be your next colleague!

This session is free, open to anyone registered to attend the Main Conference Program who has been in the industry for 10 years or less.

District Enegy 102

Data & Analytics

In today’s district energy, software and analytics have become important assets for optimizing operations, enhancing efficiency, and driving informed decision-making. This presentation will introduce young professionals to these powerful tools, offering a structured approach to understanding their importance, setting clear objectives, and implementing them effectively within their organizations.

We will begin by exploring the critical role of software and analytics in district energy. Using the Data Information-Knowledge-Wisdom (DIKW) framework, we will demonstrate how raw data can be transformed into actionable insights. This framework will help participants grasp how software and analytics help convert data into valuable knowledge that informs wise decision-making.

Next, we will focus on the goals of leveraging software and analytics. Our primary objectives include understanding past events, monitoring current operations, and predicting future trends. Through data analysis, real-time monitoring, and predictive modeling, organizations can make informed decisions, optimize performance, and proactively address challenges.

Finally, we will discuss practical steps for implementing software and analytics to create tangible value. Successful adoption involves a three-pronged approach: establishing a clear purpose, defining a precise process, and conducting regular reviews. By aligning initiatives with specific business objectives, creating implementation plans, and continuously evaluating progress, organizations can maximize the impact of these tools on their operations.

Throughout this presentation, young professionals will gain an understanding of the why, what, and how of software and analytics in district energy. Leveraging the DIKW framework, setting clear objectives, and following a structured implementation approach, they will be equipped with information to drive operational excellence, optimize decision-making, and contribute to their organizations' sustainable growth.

Presented by: Sarah Kline, General Manager, HanAra Software

Sarah Kline is the General Manager at HanAra Software and joined the company in 2016 as HanAra’s first US member. She leads the daily operations of the organization and coordinates engineering and technical support, planning, and sales and marketing.

Sarah brings international business and manufacturing expertise to HanAra. Before joining the company, she served as a technology assessment researcher for the Global Commercialization Group/IC2 Institute at The University of Texas at Austin, a post that led directly to her joining HanAra.

Sarah holds dual degrees from Texas Christian University — a Bachelor of Science in Economics, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science — graduating Summa Cum Laude. She also earned her Master of Global Policy Studies from The University of Texas, LBJ School of Public Affairs

Thermal Distribution Systems

This presentation provides an overview of thermal distribution systems, the hidden networks that deliver heating and cooling throughout campuses and districts. We will introduce common system configurations, construction methods, and provide an overview of the products and materials used to transport heating and chilled water, steam, and condensate underground.

You will learn about installation methods, the equipment and efforts involved, and considerations for executing a successful project. Attendees will gain an introductory understanding of the components and construction methods utilized for efficient and reliable thermal distribution systems.

Presented by: Derek Tompkins, Regional Manager, Primoris Energy Services Corporation

Derek Tompkins is a Regional Manager at Primoris Energy Services Corporation, overseeing eastern regional operations and project execution in the thermal systems and district energy sectors.

With 16 years of experience in the energy industry, Derek has held various roles in construction and engineering, executing both new-build and brownfield projects. His expertise spans power generation, central energy, and mechanical thermal distribution systems. He has worked on and led the successful execution of projects ranging from thermal piping retrofits to greenfield advanced class combined cycle power plants.

Presented by: Zach Eckler, Regional Manager, Primoris Energy Services Corporation

Zack Ecker is a Regional Manager at Primoris Energy Services Corporation, overseeing central regional operations and project execution in the thermal systems and district energy sectors.

Zack’s career began with hands-on experience in the field, supervising underground utility projects. This foundation, coupled with a degree in Construction Science and Management from Texas State University, laid the groundwork for a successful career in project management at a large General Contracting firm and now with Primoris focusing on thermal utilities. He has extensive experience spanning commercial and industrial sectors with a current focus on mechanical and thermal distribution systems.

Heat Pumps & Geothermal 

This session of YPG DE102 will focus on demystifying heat pumps.  The basic principle of operation will be explained to provide an understanding of the “coefficient of performance”, as well as how the “source” and “sink” can be utilized in various applications.  Heat pump technology has a great potential in district energy systems by offering an opportunity to electrify, and decarbonize, domestic hot water and space heating, as well as leveraging their capability to provide combined cooling and heating. 

Heat pump applications greatly depend on the unique site conditions that dictate available sources of energy  (geothermal, air, waste water, & industrial heat) and consideration for green field and retrofit projects will be discussed.  District energy professionals need to also understand the limitations of heat pumps, as well as important considerations when choosing the right solution including efficiency, choice of refrigerant, and maintenance requirements. 

Presented by: Benoit Rodier, Director of Business Development, Cimco Refrigeration

Benoit, as the leader of Cimco’s Decarbonization group, possesses intrinsic knowledge about thermal management’s impact on various building aspects. His mission: reduce carbon emissions and align with customer financial and environmental goals by devising tailored plans.

Benoit is a licensed Professional Engineer who graduated from Sherbrooke University in 1988 with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has had a successful career in the HVACR industry, starting as an accounts manager and progressing to various positions in sales and management. He has gained 35 years of experience with natural refrigerants and has expertise in designing and selling integrated HVACR projects. Benoit is also actively involved in local and regional associations and has played a key role in CIMCO's advancements in CO2 refrigeration, new technology adoption, net-zero buildings, and heat pumps.