The Central Plant Optimization Journey

The Central Plant Optimization Journey: From BAS to AI
September 10, 2026 - 11:00 AM EDT  

Central plant optimization is often viewed as a destination, but in practice it is a journey. Facilities typically progress from reliable Building Automation System (BAS) control to supervisory Central Utility Plant (CUP) optimization and, ultimately, AI-enabled autonomous performance as their systems, data, and operational goals mature. This session introduces a practical Good, Better, Best framework that helps facility owners and engineers assess their current level of maturity, understand the prerequisites for advancement, and identify opportunities to reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions, improve resilience, and enhance operational performance through integrated equipment, controls, and digital technologies. 

• Understand the progression from BAS control to supervisory optimization and AI-enabled autonomous performance.
• Learn how plant size, system complexity, data quality, and organizational readiness influence optimization strategies.
• Discover how integrated equipment, controls, and digital intelligence can improve efficiency, resilience, and long-term sustainability outcomes.