Building Simulations

according to ASHRAE, DIN V 18599, DIN EN 15251
A building simulation is a computer-aided analysis of the energy consumption and thermal behavior of a building. It takes into account user behavior, location, and weather data.
All relevant planning data—from the building envelope to heating, cooling, and ventilation technology, through to lighting—is transferred into a virtual model.

What are the benefits of a building simulation?

The virtual building model calculates the projected energy consumption, associated costs, and CO₂ emissions for an entire year. This analysis makes it possible to identify potential savings, improve comfort, and make informed decisions for sustainable construction.
Building Simulations
For LEED certification, you can achieve up to 18 points in the “Optimized Energy Performance” category.
With BNB and DGNB certification, you can obtain additional points for daylight autonomy, uniformity, and glare prevention.
In many building certifications, you can achieve additional points through thermal comfort simulations.

Is a building simulation worth it? Absolutely!

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Early simulation fulfills certification requirements and reduces energy costs by at least
10%
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Your Advantages
with Em-Out

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Extensive simulation experience for buildings and industrial plants
Our extensive practical experience with energy data enables a precise and realistic simulation of your model.
Complete Process Support
Use of state-of-the-art simulation software and methods
The tools and methods applied provide sustainable support for the implementation of your projects.
Traceable
Complete
Process Support
We provide professional guidance on the path to achieving your goals.
Compliance with Legal Requirements

We offer the following simulations:

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Energy simulations according to ASHRAE
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Building simulations for DGNB
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Daylight simulations
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Thermal comfort simulations according to DIN EN 15251
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Your Contact Person

Natalia Obholz
Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering, CEO
Your contact at Em-Out

Energy Simulation
Process

1
Defining
Requirements
Together, we define the goals and requirements for the simulation.
2
Data Collection
& Modeling
We collect all technical data of the building, define the usage patterns, and model the building using specialized software.
3
Targeted Optimization
for Certification
We discuss the results together and perform model adjustments as required.
4
Comprehensive
Documentation
We create a detailed simulation report as well as the necessary documentation for a smooth submission.
5
Support until
Certification
We accompany you through the entire certification process, handle inquiries from the certification body, and perform necessary adjustments.

Our
Answers
to Your Questions

Is building simulation mandatory for LEED certification?

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.

What is the difference between “Proposed Design” and “Baseline Design” in a LEED energy simulation?

 

✅ 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.

How many LEED points can be obtained through energy modeling?

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).

When in the project cycle should the simulation be performed?

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
What is included in the costs of our quotes for a LEED energy simulation?
  • 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)

Contact Energy Management Outsourcing