An energy model is a computer-generated representation of a building used to estimate the impact of proposed changes to the building on energy use. It is a comparative tool most commonly used:

New construction

• To evaluate the impact of different design options (e.g., a chilled-beam system as opposed to a conventional overhead single-duct variable-air-volume system).

• To compare the performance of a proposed design to local energy-code requirements.

• To determine the impact of change orders (e.g., less exterior-wall insulation) during construction.

Existing buildings

• To understand how a building is consuming energy.

• To quantify deficiencies in HVAC controls (e.g., how much energy and money non-functioning air-handling-unit [AHU] supply-air-temperature reset is wasting).

• To identify/estimate savings from facility improvements.

• As part of a measurement-and-verification (M&V) program.

 

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