Here at Ecolution Consulting we pride ourselves in striving towards staying abreast the cutting edge of the green building industry and employing its related technologies. Our approach to our service offering is no different, hence our excitement in sharing the news about one of the latest software tools we are utilising: DesignBuilder Optimisation. This innovative tool enables us to offer building performance and energy modelling services of exceptional quality.
What is DesignBuilder Optimisation?
Optimisation is the first fully-featured optimisation and cost-benefit analysis tool for designing buildings that DesignBuilder has developed. It uses genetic algorithms, computational problem-solving tools considered a kind of Artificial Intelligence (AI), to search and identify optimal design solutions much more effectively than conventional manually-run design tests do. The tool can very effectively search for the best building design parameters, by ‘learning’ from previous simulation results. In this way you can quickly search for the optimal design within for example 1 000-10 000 (or more) different designs. If you’d like to read more on how this AI is used in building design, download the following case study.
But Wait a Minute, why do I need Energy Modelling?
By designing computerised models of the energy systems within a building one can run virtual simulations and gain crucial data to ensure the most effective balance between the heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation and the overall thermal comfort of a building. Through these simulations one can quantify savings in terms of electricity over the lifetime of the building, as well as reduce the cost of necessary mechanical equipment and its maintenance. Mindful design is about lowering a building’s energy requirements, understanding the seasonal dynamics and balancing the thermal comfort of the spaces. Using climate-responsive passive design the best suited glazing and other envelope materials are chosen to ensure that your building is as energy (and cost) efficient as possible.
Essentially, all energy models are simplifications of reality. The input information used in a building’s energy model is very specific scientific detail (see graphic below for examples of inputs). Often simplified models are the best approach to answering design questions in a time/cost effective manner.
Who benefits from Energy Modelling?
Owners
Enjoy living in/renting out an efficient and energy sustainable building and reap the benefits of a higher property value.
Developers
Future-proof your new buildings by focusing on energy sustainable design. Rate your building’s performance with SANS10400 XA, Green Star SA and EDGE.
Architects and engineers
Keep your aesthetic design vision whilst achieving performance efficiency excellence through the energy modelling process.
Building operators
Operate a resource-conscious building that performs well, has less utility costs and produces greater long-term savings.
Building Tenants
Improved health, productivity and overall wellbeing can be achieved through the improved thermal comfort attained through employing energy modelling.
Need assistance with energy modelling?
With over 6 years of experience in building energy modelling and commissioning, we offer a holistic approach that does not stop at excellent design, but extends to commissioning and sustainable operation of buildings. All of our energy modelling services are also carefully crafted to suit your project budget. Take a look at our service page to learn more about our approach to building performance and energy modelling or contact us at .