Design and construction practices are moving in the direction of performance-based standards. If you’re building a new home or a new commercial building, investing in energy modelling is a great way to get on board.
What is Energy Modelling?
Energy modelling is a process used to estimate the energy consumption of a building, typically on an annual basis. Information about climate, orientation, design geometry, building materials, and mechanical and electrical systems is collected. All this data is then entered into a software program to determine the overall energy use of the building’s design.
The information can then be used to compare a proposed building to a similar existing building, a specified energy target or building code requirement, and/or to assign a performance rating.
Energy modelling is typically carried out by design team members who use the modelling results to provide advice and consultation to building owners, project teams, and individuals.
Why do Energy Modelling?
Cost-benefit Analysis Tool
Energy modelling allows you to determine the impact on the building early in the design process so you can select the materials, technologies, and processes that will bring the most value to your project. There are many variables like design geometry, solar orientation, mechanical systems, and more that can be adjusted in the context of energy costs to determine the best fit with your specific objectives and budget.
Meet Targets or Achieve Compliance
Energy modelling can also be used to help meet other objectives like determining eligibility for rebate or certificate programs or demonstrating compliance with performance-based building codes.
Reduce Costs
Not only does using energy modelling early in the design process help you identify ways to save energy, but it also helps you save money and reduce the need for costly modifications and changes down the road.
Energy Modelling is the Future
Modern building codes and construction practices are already moving in the direction of performance-based standards. In the future, it’s expected that energy modelling will be a necessary part of the integrated design process.
How to Get Started?
Efficiency Manitoba offers rebates for the costs of hiring an energy modeller if you are:
Energy Modelling for New Homes
Efficiency Manitoba’s New Homes Program offers rebates for the cost of hiring an energy modeller when designing your new home.
Find out more about residential energy modelling when designing new homes here.