LEED Energy Modeling That Never Fails Review
100% success rate on final USGBC submissions. Zero rejections in 18+ years.
Energy modeling is one of the most critical parts of LEED certification. Optimize Energy Performance is the largest single credit, and a rejected energy review can delay certification, disrupt the schedule and force costly redesigns. We build ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G models that earn every EA point the design can achieve, and a second licensed professional checks each model before it goes to USGBC.
Model already built? Get a free QA/QC review before you submit to USGBC.
What does LEED require from the energy model?
LEED v4 and v4.1 require the proposed building to beat a baseline building by at least 5% for new construction, 3% for major renovations, or 2% for core and shell. The baseline is modeled to ASHRAE Standard 90.1 Appendix G: the 2010 edition for LEED v4 and the 2016 edition for LEED v4.1. The same model scores the Optimize Energy Performance credit, so every extra percent of savings can earn more points.
Benefits of Energy Modeling
Modeling early in design lets the team test building orientation, massing, envelope, window-to-wall ratio, shading, daylighting and HVAC options while they are still easy to change.
It optimizes whole-building performance, helps the project meet its energy goals, and avoids the redesign time and cost of bringing energy modeling in late.
What are the best practices for using energy modeling and simulation applications in LEED certification?
- Choose the right application Use a simulation tool that meets the ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G requirements and fits the project's scope and complexity, such as eQUEST, EnergyPlus, IES VE or DesignBuilder.
- Define the scope and objectives Before modeling, set the LEED version, the credits targeted, and the baseline and proposed cases to compare, so the analysis covers what the submission needs and nothing more.
- Follow the standards and guidelines Model to ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G and the LEED reference guide for the version in use, so the assumptions and methods match what reviewers check.
- Use appropriate data and inputs Base inputs on the drawings, equipment schedules, specifications and local weather data rather than defaults, and check them against benchmarks.
- Perform sensitivity and uncertainty analysis Vary the uncertain inputs to see which ones drive the results, and focus design and documentation effort there.
- Document and communicate the results Report the methods, assumptions, inputs and results in the LEED templates with clear tables and charts, and explain to the project team how the results shaped design decisions.