Retrofit Existing Buildings offer a chance to improve the energy efficiency of commercial building assets for their long-term usefulness. Retrofitting commonly entails making changes to already-existing commercial buildings that could increase energy efficiency or lower energy demand. Moreover, retrofits are frequently utilized as an opportunity to install distributed generation in a building as well. Energy-efficiency upgrades can save operating expenses. Especially in older buildings, as well as aid in luring tenants and gaining a competitive advantage.
Furthermore, from the initial planning phases to post-retrofit monitoring, the Building Technologies Office’s services enable planners, designers, and owners to concentrate on energy-use goals. How to carry out an energy-efficient retrofit is described in the Advanced Energy Retrofit Guides. Therefore, through simulations, energy modeling software assists in determining the most effective strategies. Additionally, during a refit, the Technology Portal can be consulted to help with fact-based buying decisions. Below are some more government resources.
Primary Sources
Manual for Building Upgrades
Use this tactical manual to assist in the planning and execution of affordable, energy-saving building modifications.
Reference Structures for Businesses
Investigate the energy models that describe 70% of commercial structures in the US, and use this data as a starting point for setting energy performance targets.
EnergyPlus
To simulate and optimize the energy and water use of your buildings, utilize this whole-building energy simulation application.
Workflow Training for OpenStudio: Energy Modeling for Retrofit Projects
Create a baseline simulation, and model, and run simulations for retrofit alternatives using this interactive checklist from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), then compare the results with your baseline model.
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Effects of Environmental Changes on Structures and Developments