What we do is not rocket science. We digest data and technology based around carreer experiences and then explain it in plain language so that smarter client decisions can be made. For example, you can find that the National 2005 Annual Electricity per household 4.8 kWh/ft. But the devil is in understanding the details. We know such values can vary greatly by location and climate. For example Laguna Beach's energy is 2.76 kWh/sf or 43% below the national average, while Houston can be 30% above this national average value.
To find 'real' local values, we reviewed the comprehensive 'Houston Home Energy Efficiency Study' published by Advanced Energy on 12/16/2009. We then extracted key data to provide a summary table. This study also provided useful ways to estimate residential energy values for different building types and approaches for the Greater Houston area. Similar data may be available for your area.
Base Line (BL) 6.21 kWh/sf of floor area, and 3.53 kWh/sf of envelope area
Energy Star (ES) 5.71 kWh/sf of floor area, and 3.28 kWh/sf of envelope area
Guaranteed Performance (GP) 5.84 kWh/sf of floor area, and 3.35 kWh/sf of envelope area
ES VS BL -0.22 kWh/sf of floor area, and -0.13 kWh/sf of envelope area
GP VS BL -0.12 kWh/sf of floor area, and -0.07 kWh/sf of envelope area
We can use this same approach with our energy, structural, and civil project experience to provide comprehensive project design specific energy consulting. ECO energy experience covers solar, wind, combined heat and power (CHP), and shelter-in-place (S-I-P) energy systems.
