Energy modeling is a process that must be integrated into the initial conceptual and schematic phase of design in order to produce a sustainable, green project that is energy efficient. The early stages of the design process, where massing and general architectural forms are created, is where concepts of heat gain, load shed and day lighting must be evaluated. These factors will determine the size of the mechanical equipment needed to condition the space, thus resulting in an overall energy consumption of the building.
One of the largest consumers of energy in the United States is the building mechanical system. In an era with rolling brown-outs and skyrocketing energy cost, more and more emphasis is put on the designer with regard to the HVAC systems. There are several factors in the construction of a building that influence the final size of the HVAC system. For instance, the design of the building envelope and the amount of windows can have a major impact in the HVAC system. By implementing an energy model early in the process, the mechanical engineer can help find the optimum point where a building component such as windows can be maximized and the HVAC systems minimized.
As all of the building components and materials are manipulated within the energy modeling software, it allows the designer to compare various mechanical systems prior to final design. Then the design team and owner both can feel confident that the HVAC system selection will be the best choice of a combination of energy efficiency and front end cost based on the requirements. The implementation of this kind of technology results in more energy-efficient buildings that are able to far exceed the current accepted standards set by ASHRAE.
A successful energy –efficient project is the result of engaging an energy analysis of the building at the earliest level of the design. Implementing the energy modeling at the earliest level results in the most efficient design process, saving time and money as the design moves forward. The energy model will serve as a guide to achieve the most sustainable project while still maintaining the owners project requirements.
