Creating an energy-use model and cost profile early in a project design process—using lightweight tools and resources, such as energy use intensity data and DOE commercial benchmark model data—can provide direction to the Building Team and generate consensus around an energy-efficient design that saves time and money.
This course explores how to increase project value through energy modeling, as well as how to conduct quick payback and net present value studies to identify which energy strategies are most viable for the project.
After reading this article, you should be able to:
• Explain the basic concept of energy modeling as a process that allows project stakeholders to understand the predicted energy use/energy cost of a building before it is actually built.
• Discuss three attributes of a successful project energy strategy, including pushing the owner’s and project team’s aspirations while demonstrating successful payback over time.
• Describe how to create a project’s energy-use profile using a variety of available options.
• List the key factors to be considered in setting up an effective request for proposals for an energy-modeling bid.