Energy Modeler's role on the Project Team

Green Ideas has significant experience with computer energy modeling to meet LEED and ASHRAE 90.1 Standard requirements. Energy modeling services can either be performed in-house or by our energy modeling partner, Quest Energy Group.

Modeler’ Role

The Energy Modeler’s role in a project requires a close working relationship with the architect, lighting and mechanical designers throughout the design process to ensure an integrated building design. This approach facilitates critical decision-making regarding the impacts of the building envelope, the daylighting and interior lighting systems and the size of the heating, ventilation and cooling equipment. Accordingly, the Energy Modeler’s initial project involvement will occur during the schematic and early design development phase of the project to produce maximum impact. Green Ideas recommends performing energy analysis early enough in the design process to help the design team make design decisions that will affect energy consumption and comfort.

Schematic Design Phase

During the Schematic Design phase, the Energy Modeler will attend a kick off meeting or design charrette with the owner and design team to develop a preliminary list of energy efficiency measures (EEMs) and HVAC system alternatives that will be evaluated for the project. These EEMs typically include alternatives for wall and roof construction, window type and location, natural daylighting opportunities, high-efficiency package unitary equipment, etc.

The Energy Modeler will then develop an hourly computer model of the schematic design using the eQuest software program. Using this model, Green Ideas will develop a minimally compliant (ASHRAE 90.1) model of the facility. This baseline model will serve as the basis for evaluating potential energy efficiency measures and system alternatives. It will also be the basis for determining the number of credits available under LEED EA Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance. A second meeting will be scheduled with the design team to present the results of the preliminary analysis. The Energy Modeler will provide the design team with the expected overall performance of the facility as well the economic viability (simple payback and life-cycle cost) of each of the energy efficiency opportunities.

Construction Document Phase

At the end of Construction Document phase, the Energy Modeler will reconcile the computer model of the facility to reflect the final building design. At this time, the Energy Modeler will complete the LEED documentation for both EA Prerequisite 2 and EA Credit 1. A final wrap up meeting or conference call will then be scheduled with the design team to share the results.

More information on energy modeling:

Energy Modeling Basics

The Energy Modeler's role on the Project Team