Kelley Whalen
EEP
Adtran | Energy Manager
Speaker
Track M: Sustainable Development
Session M2: International Decarbonization Strategies
September 26, 2024 | 9:30 am - 10:00 am
Decarbonization: Integrating It into Strategic Energy Management
Strategic energy management (SEM) is crucial for optimizing energy usage in commercial buildings, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. It involves planning, monitoring, and implementing measures to reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and minimize environmental impact. Central to SEM is decarbonization, which aims to cut carbon emissions and shift towards cleaner energy sources.
Integrating decarbonization into SEM strategies not only aligns with global energy management initiatives but also supports corporate ESG goals. By embracing renewable energy sources, adopting advanced technologies, and leveraging data analytics for informed decision-making, organizations can achieve substantial energy savings and boost their environmental performance. Energy audits pinpoint areas for improvement, technology upgrades enhance efficiency and cut emissions, and employee engagement promotes a sustainability-driven culture. Continuous improvement practices ensure ongoing advancements in energy savings and environmental impact. Collectively, these efforts underscore a commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and robust governance, advancing the broader ESG framework.
Speaker Bio
I bring over 31 years of experience in energy management, controls, and HVAC, including roles as an Air Force HVAC technician, HVAC contractor, and 19 years with Adtran. At Adtran, I have held various positions and currently manage the Energy Management, HVAC, and Electrical Departments. I oversee Building Automation Systems, Energy Management software, and Critical Equipment Monitoring dashboards. As Energy Manager, I lead sustainability initiatives within the Facilities Department and coordinate energy-saving projects. Since 2005, I have directed Adtran’s energy management program, achieving a 49.6% reduction in Energy Utilization Index (EUI).
I am honored to have received the ASHRAE 2019 Region VII Regional Technology Award for the Commercial Building, Existing category for the Adtran East Tower Chiller Plant Optimization project. Additionally, I was an Honorable Mention winner of the ASHRAE Technology Award in the Commercial Buildings – EBCx Category at the Society level. My work on the Chiller Plant Optimization project was featured in the ASHRAE Journal (September 2020 issue). I was named 2021 Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Region II Energy Manager of the Year, was part of the team that won the 2022 Project of the Year, and was honored as the 2023 AEE International Energy Manager of the Year.