Conference Paper

Proceedings of Building Simulation 2013: 13th Conference of IBPSA

Building Energy Modeling For Gaining Investor Confidence

Ellen FRANCONI, Kristin FIELD, Michael DERU

DOI: https://doi.org/10.26868/25222708.2013.1401
Abstract: Recent studies of the U.S. building stock indicate that scaling-up building retrofits is becoming increasingly compelling due to large cost-savings potential, attractive return-on-investment, and demonstrated savings. Deploying private capital for retrofits could prove transformational for achieving national and global energy and carbon reduction targets. Yet, a key bottleneck to accessing private capital is the lack of confidence in energy saving estimates against which lenders would underwrite loans, according to the Rockefeller Foundation and others. An energy modeler is the service provider that is responsible for estimating energy cost savings during design. In order to build investor confidence in savings estimates, this paper proposes an expanded vision for an energy modeler's approach to their work. Current and future efforts are presented that support a modeler's ability to meet investor informational needs. Specifically, it addresses critical areas and contributions in three categories: 1) credentialing, 2) methods and processes, and 3) simulation analysis. Understanding and addressing investor concerns about modeling in these areas can help unlock the energy savings opportunities afforded by emerging financing mechanisms.
Pages: 366 - 375
Paper: