An energy model is typically as simple or complex as the building it is representing.

How is a model built?

An energy model is a software representation of a building operating over the course of a “typical” year.  There are lots of modelling tools available, however the most important component is the modeller her/himself!

An energy model will be based on the designs of several consultants, which together represent all aspects of the building that impact its energy consumption.  Typically, this includes drawings and specifications from the architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer and building envelope consultant.

The energy model also includes all major weather, operational, controls, and schedule information representing a typical year.  Depending on the end-use of the model, operational profiles can be based on actual anticipated operational parameters (for example, a bank’s operating hours are likely known at the time of design).  Otherwise, codes and standards will often provide operating parameters that must be used to demonstrate compliance.

What codes are models based on?

Code compliance requirements will vary between jurisdictions and the differences can be significant.  In British Columbia, there are two set of rules to follow, outlined in the:

• Vancouver Building Bylaw (VBBL), and

• British Columbia Building Code (BCBC).

Some building codes refer to other published standards.  The most common in Canada are:

• ASHRAE 90.1-2010 (the date can vary), and

• National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) 2011.

Both are currently referenced by the VBBL and the BCBC.

What does the energy modelling process look like?

The process of analyzing a building with a model can vary based on the type of project being undertaken, and the purpose of the model (discussed earlier).

A typical process for a new construction model is shown below.

Shape/Massing Model

Block loads models are often used to help optimize passive design features such as orientation, massing, shading and glazing percentage.

Early Stage Analysis

Models created around the rezoning/ schematic design stage are typically used to check if the initial design is on track to meet the project targets, or come up with design criteria to meet an energy requirement.

The modeller will ask questions of the design team to understand the design intent which is then represented in the model.  Assumptions are often included to cover items that are still unknown on the project.

Design Iterations

This is the “what if…?” stage and helps inform the design.  With a preliminary model complete, the team can run iterations to examine the impact of design options on the building.  Typical examples include:

• Iterating design options (ex. Looking at different wall details & associated R-values)
• Examining the impact of product selection (ex. Condensing boiler vs. natural draft)
• Looking for targets (ex. What glazing SHC will maintain comfortable summer temperatures?)
• Sensitivity analysis (ex. If the desired airtightness isn’t achieved, how does that impact my certification?

You guessed it… there are tons more scenarios that a modeller can run… so if you have a question, ask!

Final Model

This model is used to represent the final building design/as-built conditions.  All of the energy-impacting systems (envelope, mechanical, lighting, etc.) need to be represented per the team’s drawings and specifications.

Depending on the model’s purpose, the final building’s energy consumption, cost, or other metric will be compared with a baseline model or set criteria from a code/ standard, to demonstrate performance.

How long do models take?  How much do they cost?

The time and cost associated with a model depend on the complexity of the building that it’s representing.  A house will be faster and less expensive than a tower, and the tower will take longer the more complex and unique the systems are.  (Think of the detail in the final arch/ mech/ elec sets that have to be read, interpreted and represented in the model!)

The best way to get a cost for your project is to reach out to a modeller (or several) and ask.  If you’re requesting a quote, the most helpful information you can provide:

• Project information (drawings/ descriptions/ as much info as you have based on the stage of design)
• Model purpose
• Project schedule
• An idea of the iterations needed
• Any unique features of your project

If you have thoughts or questions to share with us, please drop us a line.  Thanks for reading!

Authored by: Susan Hayes, P.Eng.