Energy Use Analysis & Code Compliance

Code Compliance  

SOCOTEC professionals have performed analyses on over 100 million square feet of facilities, including many flagship projects. We model all building types from 5,000 to over 5,000,000 square feet, as well as entire campuses.  

We have modeled all facility types, through all phases of a projects design and construction, and our expertise is solidly anchored in design, research and field work. 

Our professionals have in-depth experience in all relevant domains: 

• Energy use 
• Renewables 
• Lighting and daylighting 
• Air movement in buildings and natural ventilation (Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis) 
• Contaminant dispersion 
• Conductive heat flow through thermal bridging building envelope, roofs, etc. (THERM Analysis) 
• Moisture migration and moisture condensation (WUFI) 
• Life-cycle of materials and carbon 
• Economic parameters 

SOCOTEC’ modeling is supported by a true understanding of building physics and of real world consequences. This capability is the result of extensive testing, monitoring, commissioning and benchmarking. 

Proven Record of Success With Energy Modeling for LEED 

Our analysis has a proven track record. We model accurately – and we anchor this modeling in our extensive experience working with materials and systems under all operating conditions. We have a significant advantage in LEED projects. Our work is characterized by: 

• High level modeling, that can make the difference of energy points required for the LEED rating 
• In depth knowledge of energy codes, including ASHRAE 90.1 
• A designated LEED representative from USGBC, to directly assist with expediting our volume and quality of work.  
• Working relationship with USGBC on difficult general issues (eg. removal of mandatory voltage drop provision, or tenant mandates in core and shell buildings) saving tens to hundreds to thousands of dollars per project 

Local Law 86 Results 

LEED and Code models are idealized. They do not represent real-life energy use/cost. SOCOTEC professionals have been pioneers in correctly predicting energy use once a building is built or renovated. To this end we employ advanced modeling techniques supported by our experience with M&V and commissioning. 

We obtain results: Attractive paybacks, energy savings from 10% to 50% depending on budgets, even net-zero buildings. 

BERDO: Boston's Path to Net Zero

The Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) represents Boston's ambitious climate action framework, with far-reaching implications for property owners. This progressive policy sets a roadmap for mid-sized and large buildings to systematically reduce energy consumption with the ultimate goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The requirements are substantial but strategically implemented: residential buildings with 15 or more units and commercial buildings exceeding 20,000 square feet must report energy and water usage annually to the City of Boston.

Beyond reporting, BERDO establishes emissions limits that take effect in either 2025 or 2030, depending on building classification. The data submitted undergoes third-party verification during designated Verification Years to ensure accuracy and compliance. Buildings exceeding their allowable emissions thresholds face financial penalties, creating a tangible incentive for improvement beyond mere regulatory compliance.

BERDO's significance extends beyond Boston's city limits, with numerous jurisdictions throughout Massachusetts adopting similar frameworks. This reflects the growing consensus around the importance of building-sector emissions reductions in broader climate strategies. For forward-thinking property owners, BERDO represents not just a compliance challenge but an opportunity to enhance asset value through improved efficiency, reduced operational costs, and alignment with the growing market preference for sustainable properties.