Integrated Process-Oriented Approach in Energy Codes, Standards & Protocols: Development and Application

Continued from January 12th post Energy Codes, Standards & Protocols: Are We Good to Go?

One of the major shortcomings of the current approach pursued by organizations developing codes, standards and protocols is that the development lacks the integrated process-oriented approach. Given the nature of multi-disciplinary involvement in building energy performance, the codes, standards and protocols do not follow the design of a building (as a process); rather they attempt to offer solutions through mere numerical recommendations.

A process-oriented approach starts from programmatic design phase incorporating passive design strategies based on climate and human comfort. The effect of climate is studied and recommendations drawn upon; the building design harnesses the best of this climate through ample passive strategies and controls such as siting and orientation, shape configuration, earth sheltering, thermal mass walls, daylighting and shading, etc.

It is to be noted that none of the Building Energy Standards (BES) incorporates passive strategies, except basic natural ventilation requirements in Standard 62.1-2007, which are essential to building energy performance. Besides, BES should, through their continuous maintenance programs, incorporate information related to latest technologies such as Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF), etc.  Currently, there are no codes, standards and protocols providing guidance for renewable energy systems, internal plug-loads, complex wall systems, etc.

Furthermore, the following are characteristics of an integrated process-oriented approach to codes, standards and protocols:

• Building design stakeholders participation in BES development. Building design involves many stakeholders and owing to their specialization, and part of the building process, their participation is vital for BES development. For example, in the development of BSR/ASHRAE/USGBC/IESNA Standard 189.1P, although a huge step forward in terms of energy savings potential, however, did not have the participation of AIA, the premier organization representing the architectural professionals in the US. AIA Research Corporation, in 1972, advanced energy efficiency design using in-depth climate analysis and their work has been extensively referenced in recognized bioclimatic books. Over the years as research funding dwindled in AIA, architects became stoic followers of codes, standards and protocols as a (reactive) compliance procedure. However, without delving into the reasons for non-involvement of AIA in BSR/ASHRAE/USGBC/IESNA Standard 189.1P, the present approach clearly shows breakdown in integrated process - oriented approach. Such involvement of all stakeholding parties in the standard setting process is crucial for completeness of standard.
• Prototypical studies and body of knowledge as a requirement in the course of standards development and codification phases. An intermediate process that includes detailed prototypical studies / scientific substantiation and development of body of knowledge for practitioners and enforcement officials is essential before broader application of the standard is promoted. For example, fundamental knowledge of building physics should be mandatory for performing Appendix G procedure. Besides, DOE should be at the forefront in promoting BES’s broader purpose and application rather than being promoted by third party rating systems as is evident in huge surge of Standard 90.1, 62.1 and 55 applications recently.
• Protocols for validation of design and analysis. Lack of validation methodology results in repetitive efforts or flawed design on the part of the designer.

Thus, although existing codes, standards and protocols offer tremendous aid toward building energy performance evaluation, an integrated process-oriented approach to new codes, standards and protocols will permit building design with an expansive view into energy efficiency, specifically through recommendations and guidelines on passive strategies and renewable energy systems.

Image Credit: The Green Roundtable / NEXUS