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<P>The statement below from the several responses I received to my views on
energy analysis software shows what A-E design firms have to deal
with:</P><B><I><FONT color=#ff0000>
<P>"I think the performance path in many building energy codes is not clearly
defined at present. This sometimes makes compliance procedure hard to follow.
Even when the performance path is defined, there are always arguments about the
modelling assumptions, such as parameters for the reference building and
performance of speculative building systems."<BR></P></I></FONT>
<P>We now have to show energy code compliance using energy programs when
submitting construction documents.</B> Until recently we had the option of not
having to perform energy analysis during the design process.</P>
<P>Several architects prefer to maximize the glass well above 50% (the building
now falls in the <B>non-prescriptive</B> category) not just for aesthetic
reasons, but also to reduce first costs, exterior maintenance costs and to
provide a better indoor environment which in turn translates into higher
productivity of the occupants.</P>
<P>In my personal opinion energy software developers should provide examples and
documentation of how we would show <B>non-prescriptive</B> compliance using
their programs. The code authorities should also explain with examples how we
are expected to show <B>non-prescriptive</B> compliance using energy programs
and they must indicate which programs are authorized. </P>
<P>Based on ASHRAE Standard 90.1 most codes categorize buildings into low-rise
residential buildings and commercial buildings which includes high-rise
residential. Convention centers, performing arts centers, airport terminals,
indoor stadiums all fall under commercial. We were once asked to show Std 90.1
compliance for one of these types of buildings using ComCheck-Plus. We need
examples of how to show <B>non-prescriptive</B> code compliance for large
hospitals and university campuses that include laboratories.</P>
<P>We need energy programs that will show and document code compliance at the
construction documents level. In my opinion the DOE2.1E (or DOE2.2 which I have
not used) is very suitable for showing code compliance. We first analyze the
building model using all prescriptive parameters and then analyze it again with
other conditions to produce the same annual energy performance. The Building
Description Language (BDL) input of the two cases is included in the report and
submitted to the client to show that the modeling was done correctly.</P>
<P>I hope that these views and comments will be of help at the ASHRAE TC 4.7
meeting next week.</P>
<P>Varkie Thomas</P>
<P>Skidmore, Owings & Merrill</P></FONT></FONT></DIV><PRE>
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