Building Simulations
What are the benefits of a building simulation?
Is a building simulation worth it? Absolutely!
Request a QuoteYour Advantages
with Em-Out
Request a Quote
Process Support
We offer the following simulations:
Request a QuoteYour Contact Person
Energy Simulation
Process
Requirements
& Modeling
for Certification
Documentation
Certification
Our
Answers
to Your Questions
Yes, particularly for projects according to LEED v4 and v4.1, an energy simulation is required to meet the minimum energy efficiency requirements and to achieve additional points in the “Energy and Atmosphere (EA)” category, specifically within the framework of:
- EA Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance
- EA Credit: Optimize Energy Performance
The simulation enables proof of energy savings compared to a reference building according to ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G.
✅ 1. Proposed Design
The “Proposed Design” is the energy simulation model of the actually planned building.
It contains all real design features such as:
- Planned thermal insulation and window properties
- Selected heating, cooling, and ventilation systems
- Lighting, control systems, and user profiles
- Renewable energies (e.g., PV system)
- Planned operating mode and control strategies
Goal: To realistically represent the actual energy efficiency of the project design.
⚖️ 2. Baseline Design (Reference Building)
The “Baseline Design” is a fictitious reference building that is identical in use, size, and zone layout, but is modeled according to the minimum requirements of ASHRAE 90.1.
It uses standardized properties such as:
- Standard U-values for walls and windows
- Standard-compliant HVAC systems (by building type)
- Reference Lighting Power Density
- Standard operating hours and user profiles
In a LEED-compliant energy simulation according to ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G, two building variants are calculated. The number of LEED points achievable in the Optimize Energy Performance credit is based on the percentage of energy saving potential of the Proposed Design compared to the Baseline.
In the “Optimize Energy Performance” (EA Credit) category, up to 18 points (LEED v4) or 20 points (LEED v4.1) can be achieved—depending on the proven energy savings compared to the reference building (Baseline).
Ideally in the design or early implementation phase, in order to:
- Support design decisions
- Identify optimization potential early on
- Meet the requirements of the LEED Preliminary Review
- Creation of a Baseline and Proposed model according to ASHRAE 90.1
- Simulation of all energy flows (heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, etc.)
- Documentation for the LEED review process
- Verification for the EA Prerequisite and EA Credit: Optimize Energy Performance
- Answering inquiries from the certification body (Review Comments)