Spkr_Hdsht_Hawley

Alaina Hawley

CEM

Platte River Power Authority | Distributed Energy Solutions Supervisor

Speaker

Track I: Energy Services

Session I2: Building Commissioning and Retrofits

September 18, 2025 | 9:00 am - 9:30 am

Advancing Energy Efficiency: Lessons from Utility-Incentivized Retrocommissioning and the Development of a Monitoring-Based Commissioning Program

As energy efficiency becomes a global priority, utilities play a crucial role in optimizing building performance. Efficiency Works, an initiative by Platte River Power Authority and it’s owner communities in Northern Colorado, has led the charge in implementing utility-incentivized Retrocommissioning (RCx) programs—delivering measurable energy savings and operational improvements across our region. Now, we are expanding our portfolio with the development of a Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx) program, utilizing our extensive research and experience.

This presentation, led by Alaina Hawley of Platte River Power Authority, and Ben Baden of Franklin Energy, will showcase key lessons learned from years of hands-on program implementation, expert interviews, and in-depth analysis of industry best practices. Attendees will gain insight into the benefits of RCx and MBCx, effective program structures, and real-world case studies demonstrating significant energy savings.

With combined expertise in utility-driven efficiency programs, program design, and on-the-ground implementation, we will provide actionable strategies for utilities, engineers, and facility managers to enhance their commissioning efforts. Our dynamic session will equip attendees with the tools to drive sustainability and cost savings in their own organizations.

Join us to explore how advanced commissioning strategies can unlock new energy efficiency opportunities and transform the future of building performance.

Speaker Bio

Alaina Hawley is a Distributed Energy Solutions Supervisor at Platte River Power Authority, where she leads the team responsible for implementing commercial distributed energy programs under the Efficiency Works Business brand. She directly oversees several key offerings, including commercial retrofit rebates, custom projects, Performance Plus, Retrocommissioning, and large commercial and industrial advising and assessment programs. Over her eight years at Platte River, Alaina has held roles as an Energy Solutions Engineer and Program Manager, consistently focusing on commercial and multifamily customer programs. Her work reflects a deep commitment to helping customers use energy more effectively and sustainably. Alaina is passionate about the evolving energy landscape and is actively involved in transitioning existing programs while developing new initiatives that empower customers to be part of the solution. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Energy Systems Engineering from Oregon State University and is a Certified Energy Manager.