We are completing an energy model for a concrete dome. We chose the dome structure because it is more energy efficient than conventional building types. This was a design decision. However, we have been told that in the process of energy modeling we are supposed to compare a "dome to a dome". If we have to compare a dome to a dome then we will lose energy efficiency "points". In all fairness, we think we should be comparing a dome to a conventional building type. Please advise.
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Dylan Connelly
Mechanical EngineerIntegral Group
LEEDuser Expert
472 thumbs up
November 10, 2011 - 11:30 am
Unfortunately, ASHRAE does not allow you to get extra credits for the shape of your building when going with the Performance/Energy Modeling approach to energy savings. Your concrete dome will be considered a roof and it's thermal characteristics will be compared to the ASHRAE minimum construction for a baseline roof.
ASHRAE does allow you to take credits for shading provided by your building and allows you to not model that shading on the baseline building.
Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5915 thumbs up
November 15, 2011 - 10:02 am
A dome is not necessarily more energy efficient in operations. As I understand it a dome is simply more material efficient (less materials for a given square footage). So the embodied energy can be better. The operational energy depends on many other factors beyond the shape.