Module 9 - Points to Ponder

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Module 9 - Points to Ponder
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Please share your comments on 3 of the following Points to Ponder questions. (Choose 3 of the questions below.)

Can you guarantee that the completed building will match the performance predicted by the analysis in its day-to-day operations?

  • Why or why not?

There is not a 100% guarantee that the completed building will match the performance predicted by the analysis in its day-to-day operations. The predicted performance is only an estimate based on the buildings general structure and location, especially since it is created using the conceptual masses. There are several factors that can contribute to performance that are not considered such as actual arrangement of windows, interior walls, human occupancy, neighboring obstructions, and more. A more detailed analysis would be needed to further understand day-to-day usage, however, this gives a quick estimate.

When choosing settings for each of the building performance factors, should you always choose the setting that gives the absolute lowest predicted energy use?

The lowest predicted energy use option is not always the best for the client. When choosing a lower energy use option, there is a trade off with cost. It is important that the client and designers consider unit and operation costs to potential savings when choosing the best option. Some lower energy options could also have diminishing savings where a higher investment gives a lower increase in energy savings. There is likely a sweet spot for both of these.

How can you use Insight feedback to make design choices regarding materials, lighting, PV, etc.?

The Insight feedback can be used to more effectively arrange the building and choose material options that are most effective in increasing energy savings with less cost input. By arranging windows on sunlight heavy sides of the building and using natural lighting to the buildings advantage, energy savings can be exemplified without trading for extra cost or diminishing aesthetics of the building. Building roofs can also be better planned to exemplify PV potential.