Ben Baden

CEM

Franklin Energy | Energy Engineer

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

Ben Baden is a skilled professional with a background in advanced manufacturing, renewable sales, and energy engineering. As an Energy Engineer II at Franklin Energy in Denver, CO, Ben facilitated and pre-approved over 70 RCx projects with Efficiency Works, breaking program records and surpassing annual energy savings goals.

Starting his career with 3M, Ben supervised high-volume production lines and developed processes that reduced production waste and increased output. He then transitioned to renewable sales with Blue Raven Solar, excelling in customer service and earning top sales awards.

Ben holds an Energy Management Information Technology (EMIT) certification and is soon to be a Certified Energy Manager (CEM). He completed a research project on Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx) and is now developing a new MBCx program for Efficiency Works. Ben looks forward to presenting his RCx program experiences and MBCx research insights, aiming to help propel the world towards sustainability.

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