A Systems Approach To The Development Of An Energy Benchmarking Process Model For Commercial Buildings

Abstract

The United States uses the second largest amount of energy in the world – next to China. The building sector, which comprises residential and commercial buildings, constitutes 40% of primary energy consumption within the United States. The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is a crucial environmental initiative in the 21st century. Energy benchmarking has been identified as a means to achieve such goals within reasonable financial constraints - particularly with regards to enhanced building energy performance. In conjunction with the utility industry, state agencies, and energy advocacy groups, the Department of Energy (DOE) has initiated strategies such as rebates on qualified appliances as well as strategic energy comparisons and subsequent building audits using the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool. For the purpose of this dissertation, a system engineering approach is used to understand and integrate the various facets involved in challenges of a multi-disciplinary nature such as energy benchmarking in commercial buildings. The Systems Development Life Cycle is used as a framework for the analysis and design of the different facets (viewed as sub-systems) that facilitate the successful implementation of energy benchmarking in a defined jurisdiction. The end result is the development of a comprehensive energy benchmarking process model, using the Systems Modelling Language (SysML). The process model can be disseminated to cities across the energy benchmarking implementation spectrum, as a resource for the purpose of implementation.