Forum discussion

Schools-NC-v4 EAp2:Minimum energy performance

Geo WSHP + DOAS Fans over 10% Building Energy Usage requiring submetering

My project has fans consuming more than 10% of the building's energy on a geothermal system with WSHPs and a decoupled DOAS system, that are requiring submetering to satisfy the advanced energy metering credit. The architect on this project said they've been dinged before when fans represented more than 10% of the total load of the building, and the USGBC required them to submeter those loads separately, but submetering the heat pump fans is not feasible. They asked if we can define the DOAS fans and WSHP fans separately which I've done by switching the DOAS fans' category in IES to garage exhaust in as there are no garage exhaust fans on the project and I would explain this in the narrative. We are thinking we can submeter the DOAS since it is above 10% still and leave the heat pump fans under the general mechanical submetering as they are below 10%, but I am reaching out to see if there might be a better solution or if anyone has done something like before?

0

You rely on LEEDuser. Can we rely on you?

LEEDuser is supported by our premium members, not by advertisers.

Go premium for $15.95  »

Mon, 12/01/2025 - 18:58

Submetering does not have to be through a direct kWh measurement device. We have developed a metering plan that relied upon indirect measurements that are then used to derive the fan power energy use. For example if the building automation system monitors when the fans are on and what percentage they are operating at (assuming variable speed), you can derive the fan energy use. So rather they spending time trying to figure out a way to go around the requirements via your modeling, figure out how to derive fan energy use through other means than direct measurement. 

Add new comment

To post a comment, you need to register for a LEEDuser Basic membership (free) or login to your existing profile.