The ASHRAE 209 Standard is a new and improved methodology to actualize the energy modeling to the design phase. This standard is considered somewhat revolutionary when it comes to actualizing plans of energy modeling to the designs.
The ASHRAE 209 was designed so that there could be consistent and standard procedures to properly use the skills of energy modeling. This standard perfectly advances the use of perfect energy modeling in order to quantify the significance of the design decisions. This is usually done for the point of time in which they are developed.
Introduction to Energy Modeling
Ever since the last decade, building energy modeling has gained more and more significance. This has become a much more common practice than it ever was due to the fact that it has now become standard practice. It became standard practice ever since it became a necessary requirement for LEED certification.
Normally, energy modeling is used when the end of the design process is near in order to justify any incentive programs. However, the real purpose for the building energy modeling is not just to meet a certain standard. It is used to provide valuable feedback to the designing process throughout the entire process.
What is The ASHRAE 209?
The ASHRAE 209 is a new process standard that helps users to build an optimal way to apply building energy modeling processes. This is done so that the processes can be applied to the overall building’s design process.
The ASHRAE 209 outlines a system of energy modeling activities that must be carried out through the designing process. For a lot of time, there was no set standard for how people should use energy modeling or what should constitute the designing phase. It is a solution to all these problems and sets a standard for the designing processes.
What Are Some Requirements of The ASHRAE 209?
There are many requirements that are needed when you’re getting your building certified for ASHRAE 209. These requirements must be exactly met otherwise this can be a problem later on.
The minimum requirements for the ASHRAE 209 standard involve performing a climate analysis on the location of the building. You will also need to perform some benchmarking and to participate in an energy design charette.
In order to meet the standard of ASHRAE 209, you must meet at least two of the 11 modeling cycles. One of these cycles, the load reduction cycle is mandatory to be performed during the schematic design process. This is why it is important to properly live up to the standard before doing the schematic design process.
Meet the Requirements of ASHRAE 209
What is the Advantage of Using Energy Modeling So Early in the Process?
Decisions about the building, windows and doors, number of floors, aspect ratio, and height of each story can have a huge impact. This impact can be on the energy performance of the building as well.
You will often find that if you perform the energy analysis to optimize the form of the building, then the energy is stabilized. This results in less heating and cooling loads. This means that you can save up money on energy expenditure as well. You will save more money on the HVAC system that will allow you to for some extra investment later on.
Simply put, you can actually take benefit from the passive acts by performing a comprehensive early-stage analysis. Most people aim for Net Zero Energy buildings. The ASHRAE 209 helps you to minimize energy loads and achieve a near-perfect Net Zero Energy building.
With the ASHRAE 209, you can also stabilize the amount of renewable energy that you might need to put in so you may get the net-zero goal.
In Conclusion
You can easily use the ASHRAE Standard 209 to meet and even exceed the LEED credit requirements for certification. Using the standard will optimize your projects and make them energy efficient. This will also help you make your projects save more money.
