AIA Introduces Energy Modeling Guide
Posted
10/3/2012
In order to help architects more accurately
predict the energy consumption in their design projects, the American Institute of
Architects (AIA) has put together "An Architect's Guide to
Integrating Energy Modeling in the Design Process." The guide
is an exhaustive, step-by-step map to predicting (and thus
reducing) the energy usage of buildings.
Written and assembled by a committee of architects, sustainability
experts and government building science officials, as well as AIA
staff, the guide surveys a wide swath of the building design and
construction industry to present baseline best practices for
empirically evaluating the energy performance of buildings. Beyond
defining and making a case for energy modeling, this primer walks
readers through different types of energy modeling and the
individual tools and software available for it. As a relatively new
technical specialty, the guide also discusses how to bring energy
modeling to other building team members, like engineers, and most
important of all-to clients. From initial exploratory design
concepts to code compliance and ongoing energy maintenance, this
manual covers the entire spectrum of design and building.
"Energy modeling is fast becoming a more useful means to better
inform major design decisions early and often throughout the
building design process. It can provide a roadmap to help
practitioners lead their clients toward energy efficiency goals,
green code compliance and building certification programs," said
AIA President, Jeff Potter, FAIA. "It is imperative for the entire
design and construction industry to be cognizant of the energy use
implication buildings have, in terms of limited resources, climate
change, and rising utility costs. This guide provides the energy
modeling fundamentals that can serve the client's high expectations
and ultimately reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas
emissions."
Cities including Washington, D.C, San Francisco and Philadelphia
have passed legislation requiring nonresidential building owners to
measure and report their buildings' annual energy use. By employing
energy modeling during the design phase, it will become much easier
for building owners to meet energy efficiency targets.