Energy Modeling Services
Energy modeling that delivers real design value.
From the first massing study to post-occupancy analysis, we use building performance simulation to help project teams understand how design decisions affect energy use, operating cost, carbon and building performance — while there is still time to act on the results.
What Is Energy Modeling?
Energy modeling is a computer-based simulation of how a building is expected to perform before and after it is built.
We develop a digital representation of the building envelope, internal loads, schedules, HVAC systems and other relevant systems, simulate performance using hourly weather data, and evaluate how different design decisions affect building performance.
The value is in when the model informs the decision.
Modeling done early can identify which design choices matter while they are still relatively easy and inexpensive to change. Modeling done late may simply document decisions that have already been made.
Why Energy Modeling Matters
- Lower operating costs — identify the measures that can reduce energy use before they are designed out.
- Right-sized systems — use calculated building loads to support appropriate HVAC equipment and system selection.
- Compliance & certification — demonstrate performance using documented, defensible modeling methodologies.
- Better design decisions — compare alternatives and understand the trade-offs between energy, cost, carbon and other performance objectives.
What We Model
1. Early-Stage Massing Studies
Orientation, solar exposure, shading, form and simple-box energy studies to understand the performance implications of early design decisions.
2. Load Reduction & Envelope Studies
Evaluation of envelope strategies including walls, roofs, glazing, window-to-wall ratio, shading and other measures that influence heating and cooling loads.
3. HVAC System Comparisons
Explicit HVAC modeling to compare system types, operating strategies, efficiency measures and controls.
4. Daylight & Glare Analysis
Analysis of daylight availability and glare risk to help balance natural light, occupant comfort, views and lighting energy.
5. Code Compliance & Green Building Certification
Performance-based energy modeling for applicable requirements and certification programs, including ASHRAE 90.1, NECB, LEED, BC Energy Step Code, SB-10 and IECC, depending on project location and applicable requirements.
6. Calibrated Energy Models
Calibration of models against utility and operational data for existing buildings, supporting retrofit planning, energy conservation measures, GHG reduction strategies and capital improvement decisions.
Energy Modeling Across the Design Process
From Compliance Exercise to Design Process
Energy modeling is most valuable when it is integrated into the design process rather than performed as a final compliance exercise.
Our approach aligns modeling activities with the decisions being made at each stage of a project:
1. Conceptual Design
Simple-box and early-stage models to test orientation, massing, shading, glazing and solar exposure.
2. Schematic Design
Load reduction studies and HVAC system comparisons while major design decisions are still open.
3. Design Development
Detailed design refinement, optimization and analysis, including parametric studies, daylight analysis and CFD where appropriate.
4. Construction
As-designed compliance modeling, model updates for value engineering and change orders, and as-built analysis where required.
5. Occupancy & Existing Buildings
Calibrated models and performance analysis to compare actual building performance with expectations and identify opportunities for improvement.
The current ASHRAE/IBPSA Standard 209 framework defines eleven modeling cycles intended to align building performance simulation with design, construction and operation decisions.
Why Clients Choose Ecomatrix
Modeling that shapes the design — not just documents it.
Too often, energy models arrive after the major design decisions have already been made. The model then becomes primarily a compliance document.
We take a different approach.
We plan modeling around project milestones so that analysis reaches the design team while decisions can still be changed.
Timely Design Input
At each modeling cycle, we provide clear recommendations tied to the decision in front of the project team — whether that involves orientation, glazing, envelope performance, HVAC systems or controls.
Optimization at Every Stage
We look for opportunities throughout the project rather than relying on a single late-stage optimization exercise. Early load reduction, system selection, detailed design refinement and construction-stage changes can all contribute to better overall performance.
More Options. Clearer Trade-offs
Our Ecomatrix Optimization Platform can evaluate large numbers of design combinations across energy, cost and carbon, helping teams understand trade-offs that would be difficult to evaluate manually.
Findings Designers Can Use
Our goal is not simply to provide simulation results. We explain what to change, why it matters and where the greatest opportunity lies, in a format that architects and engineers can use in their design process.
Code Compliance & Green Building Certification
Energy codes and certification programs provide different compliance pathways depending on the jurisdiction and project type.
Prescriptive Compliance
Individual building components and systems are evaluated against defined requirements for characteristics such as envelope performance, lighting, HVAC efficiency and controls.
Performance-Based Compliance
A proposed building is modeled and compared against a defined baseline or reference building using the methodology specified by the applicable code or standard.
Performance-based approaches can give design teams greater flexibility to trade improvements in one area against other design measures while demonstrating overall compliance.
Ecomatrix provides performance-based modeling and documentation for applicable projects involving:
- ASHRAE 90.1, including Appendix G Performance Rating Method
- LEED energy performance requirements
- NECB — National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings
- BC Energy Step Code
- SB-10 — Ontario
- IECC — International Energy Conservation Code
The specific standard, edition and compliance pathway are selected according to the project jurisdiction, authority having jurisdiction and certification requirements.
Our Tools
Ecomatrix Optimization Platform
Explore large numbers of design alternatives across energy, cost and carbon rather than relying on a handful of manually selected scenarios.
VentiQ
Compare energy recovery ventilation options based on energy performance, operating cost, carbon impact and payback.
Simulation Platforms
Our energy modeling workflows use established building performance simulation platforms, selected according to project requirements.
- IES-VE (Integrated Environmental Solutions Virtual Environment)
- HAP (Hourly Analysis Program)
- eQuest (Quick Energy Simulation Tool)
Our tools and workflows are complemented by engineering analysis, BIM coordination and other digital methods where they add value to the project.
Career in Energy Modeling
Join a team of Energy Modeling professionals!
We offer hands-on experience with industry-leading tools, a collaborative culture, and clear paths to grow your skills and your career.
Whether you are an Energy modeler, coordinator, or digital engineer, we would love to hear from you.