Energy modeling & whole building approach to energy efficiency

On March 12th The US Green Building Council's Massachusetts chapter and the Boston Redevelopment Authority hosted a panel of experts titled "Energy Modeling and the Whole Building Approach to Energy Efficiency." Moderator, John Dalzell from the Boston Redevelopment Authority asked expert panelists Mark Stafford from National Grid, Jodi Beebe from NSTAR, Craig Simmons from Vidaris, and Andrea Love from Payette questions that addressed today's climate for energy modeling and the whole building approach to energy efficiency. The breakfast crowd of 50 consisted of architects, engineers, property managers, building owners, and building code officials. The discussion centered on how design teams use preliminary energy modeling to support setting and reaching energy use goals. Panelists stressed the importance of energy modeling in conceptual and schematic design as well as how models relate to utility incentives offered through the MASSAVE program. Also discussed were the advantages of using 3rd party energy analysts and how planning agencies can determine energy use targets for future designs.