Benchmarking is the first step in determining the energy efficiency of a building. It often leads to the identification of low- or no-cost changes that can improve the operational efficiencies and reduce energy costs. Sustainable Building Solutions will collect data and perform a benchmarks assessment with the intent to earn the building an ENERGY STAR rating. SBS will also provide periodic snapshots of the progress of energy conservation measures implemented by the client. Before any level of energy analysis begins, it is valuable to perform a Benchmark Energy use analysis to determine a building’s current energy and cost efficiency relative to other, similar buildings.
This is done by:
- Determine the building’s gross conditioned square footage; classify the primary use of the building and ancillary energy use equipment.
- Assemble copies of all utility bills and summarize them for at least a one-year period.
- Compare the Energy Utilization Index (EUI) and the cost index with buildings having similar characteristics.
- Identify the Carbon Footprint for the building and present the findings in Tons of Carbon/building and pounds/sqft.
- Compare the energy and cost savings for each fuel type if the building were to reach the target EUI. Present the information and illustrate Opportunities for Improvements. Using these values, determine if further building performance assessments are required.
- Present the information and illustrate Opportunities for Improvements. Using
the energy and cost savings for each fuel type, determine if further building
performance assessments are required.
BENEFITS
- Enables building improvements that can result in significant savings
- Helps meet LEED EB prerequisites
- Determines the LEED
certification level a building can achieve
- Provides peer group analysis and competitive insight
