According to the UN Environment Programme, the building and construction industry is responsible for 37% of global carbon emissions.
While retrofitting existing buildings with energy-efficient appliances and remodeling can help slash these emissions, a greater impact could be made at the initial design stage.
Energy modeling is one tool in the energy consultant’s arsenal that can help builders predict the energy efficiency of a building and make adjustments to cut emissions and total energy usage.
Not only can investing in energy modeling slash emissions and help you meet regulatory and benchmarking requirements, but it can also increase the value of your property and help you market it to potential buyers.
Whether you’re planning a commercial development, an institutional project, or a multifamily housing build, energy modeling can be the key to unlocking smarter design and long-term performance. Here’s how energy modeling works and can benefit your next project.
What Is Energy Modeling?
Energy modeling is the process of using computer-based software to simulate the energy performance of a building.
It creates a virtual representation of how a structure will behave in real-world conditions, taking into account various thermodynamic factors such as weather, occupancy, HVAC systems, lighting, insulation, and building orientation.
The model calculates the amount of energy a building will use over time and identifies how various design choices affect consumption. These simulations are especially useful during the design and pre-construction phases, but are also valuable during retrofits and renovations.
Some of the main uses of energy modeling include:
- Predicting energy use intensity (EUI)
- Estimating heating and cooling loads
- Assessing the impact of building envelope improvements
- Evaluating the benefits of renewable energy systems
- Complying with local energy codes and LEED or ENERGY STAR certifications
Types of Energy Modeling
Energy consultants use several types of energy modeling to make accurate predictions, many of which may be suited to different project goals.
1. Whole-Building Energy Modeling
Considered the most comprehensive type available, whole-building simulations factor in all major energy-using systems in a building to provide the most accurate energy prediction. This modeling is often used for code compliance, green certifications, and performance-based designs.
2. Component-Specific Modeling
Smaller-scale energy models can be employed for specific components, such as HVAC systems or lighting, to determine where improvements can be made.
3. Calibrated Modeling
This method of energy modeling compares modeled data with actual energy use data from utility bills and sensors to evaluate energy performance after construction.
What Inputs Are Used in Energy Modeling?
The key to proper energy modeling is providing the most comprehensive and accurate inputs available. Some of these inputs include:
- Building geometry and orientation
- Envelope characteristics (walls, roofs, windows, insulation)
- Internal loads (occupants, equipment, lighting)
- Mechanical systems (HVAC, boilers, chillers, fans)
- Schedules (when and how the building is used)
- Local climate data
- Utility rates and renewable energy systems
Depending on the specific program your energy consultant uses, their energy models could incorporate a wider range of additional inputs.
Key Benefits of Energy Modeling
Between tools like smart meters and blower door tests, is it really worth it to perform an energy model of your building?
We tend to think so, as energy modeling can go beyond any other tool on the market to provide a comprehensive assessment of your building’s energy efficiency.
1. Improved Design Decisions
Advanced data empowers building designers and architects to make strategic design choices that help alleviate strain on heating and cooling systems and power buildings naturally. Want to know if triple-pane windows are worth the investment? Or does a geothermal system make sense for your site? Energy modeling provides data-driven answers while reducing guesswork.
2. Energy Code Compliance
Many jurisdictions now require energy modeling to demonstrate compliance with energy codes such as ASHRAE 90.1, IECC, or California’s Title 24. Energy modeling ensures your project meets requirements from the start, avoiding costly redesigns, retrofits, and QA later.
3. Qualifying for Green Certifications
Energy modeling is often a prerequisite for programs like LEED, ENERGY STAR, and Net Zero Energy Building certification. These credentials improve your building’s marketability, tenant appeal, resale value, and access to tax credits, such as the 45L credit.
4. Operational Cost Savings
By identifying energy-saving opportunities before construction, modeling can significantly reduce ongoing utility expenses. The upfront investment in analysis often pays for itself quickly through lower energy bills.
7. Risk Reduction
By identifying underperforming systems or inefficiencies early on, energy modeling reduces the risk of costly change orders, delays, or tenant complaints post-occupancy.
When Should Energy Modeling Be Used?
For builders seeking to integrate energy modeling into their workflow, the optimal time to begin is during the initial design phase. This gives your team time to explore different configurations and optimize systems without disrupting timelines.
With that said, energy modeling can also be useful later in a project or even after construction to:
- Calibrate predicted vs. actual performance
- Troubleshoot high energy bills
- Plan retrofits or energy conservation measures (ECMs)
Energy modeling is one of the smartest investments you can make in your building’s future. By providing insights into energy consumption, operational costs, and system performance, it empowers you to make choices that benefit your bottom line and the planet.
At Path Light Pro, we understand the demand for energy efficiency in the building industry, especially for end consumers.
Our team brings hands-on experience and cutting-edge tools to deliver reliable, actionable energy models tailored to your needs.
If you’re ready to take your project to the next level with advanced energy modeling, the team at Path Light Pro is here to help. Let’s start the conversation and explore how data-driven energy design can power your next build.
FAQs
How much does energy modeling cost?
Costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the building and the level of detail required. For example, a full whole-building model will cost more than a single-system analysis. However, the savings it can generate typically outweigh the initial investment.
How accurate is energy modeling?
When performed with accurate inputs and assumptions, energy modeling is highly reliable. For existing buildings, calibrated models that include real utility data can closely match actual energy performance.
Can energy modeling help with renovations or retrofits?
Absolutely. Energy modeling is not just for new construction. It’s also a great tool for identifying energy-saving upgrades and estimating their payback in existing buildings.