ASHRAE 90.1 Energy Compliance

ASHRAE 90.1 is the baseline energy standard for commercial buildings, referenced by most building codes either directly or through the IECC. Compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 can follow either the prescriptive path (meeting specific component requirements for envelope, lighting, and HVAC) or the performance path (demonstrating that the proposed building uses less energy than a standard reference building).

AI energy compliance checking evaluates both paths simultaneously. For the prescriptive path, AI verifies that each envelope component meets the required U-factor and SHGC values for the climate zone, that lighting power densities comply with the space-by-space or building area method allowances, and that HVAC equipment efficiencies meet the minimum requirements. For the performance path, AI compares the proposed building's energy model against the reference building to verify that the design demonstrates the required energy cost savings.

The interaction between compliance paths is where AI adds the most value. A building might comply prescriptively for lighting and HVAC but need the performance path for the envelope because of a design feature (a large skylight, a curtain wall system, or a unique facade). AI identifies which components meet prescriptive requirements and which need performance justification, helping the design team develop the most efficient compliance strategy rather than defaulting to the more expensive prescriptive-only approach.