SERVICES

Building Sustainability Analysis Reports
Energy Cost Solutions use a fundamental approach to identifying all energy inefficiencies with an energy audit report. Practical measures are then identified to focus on the energy saving initiatives that best suit the building use and likely maintenance. Existing buildings will vary in age, use, construction, equipment, and orientation among other differences. Identifying the buildings occupant and energy use will determine if the existing mechanical and electrical components meet the demands of the current or projected use in an efficient manner. A complete building audit will be performed to document all of the power used by the tenants and common areas. Recommendations for specific quantifiable energy performance improvements will be provided. The package is broken into Action and Deliverables followed by a consultation for each. The analysis consists of the following:

Action:
1.) Energy Audit - MEP and LEED AP to facilitate a building analysis based on ASHRAE Level 1 walk through assessment criteria. The objective is to become familiar with the building, acquire maintenance logs and any documentation. In addition the ASHRAE level 1 walk through is a prerequisite requirement for the LEED EB program.

2.) Outside Air Delivery Analysis - MEP and LEED AP to establish current HVAC ventilation rate using ASHRAE 62.1 - 2007 Ventilation Rate Procedure. Confirmation of compliance with standard required for LEED EB certification.

3.) Energy Star program - Collect energy and water data and upload information into the EnergyStar program for comparison with similar buildings and to determine the building’s current level of efficiency. Confirmation of compliance with standard required for LEED EB certification.

4.) Water Efficiency Analysis - MEP and LEED AP to determine Flush and Flow fixture efficiency as per the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals (IAPMO) / ANSI UPC 1 - 2006. Confirmation of compliance with standard required for LEED EB certification.

Deliverable:
1.) Building Operational Efficiency Report and Efficiency Recommendations:

a. LEED EB Score Card: This list will now only include the targeted points (existing and new) and the total tabulation of points generated by the results of trace program towards determining projected LEED EB level

b. Cost Analysis: All targeted improvement will be backed by estimates from each vendor and/ or Contractor

c. Energy Efficiency Breakdown & Cost: This will be a result of improvements only affecting the reduction of energy and operating cost. This section is targeting EA credit 1 of the LEED EB category.

d. LEED EB Breakdown and Cost: This will include all efforts (inclusive of previous energy saving breakdown)

e. Pay Back Period: Based on the cost associated with the Energy saving measures and/or LEED EB efforts we will be able to provide a cost for each level of improvements, identify IRS deductions and tabulate return on investment time.

Implementation of Building Analysis Reports

Energy Cost Solutions Group started as an architecture firm and sets itself apart from LEED consulting firms by having a long track record of being the owners’ agent. We not only advise our clients, we manage the team and make sure all drawings & documents are uploaded to the USGBC web site. Staying on top of the consultants assure projects will stay on schedule and the same is true with our management of all team member responsibilities.

Sustainable Architecture (Residential)

We approach all projects with a responsibility to the natural environment. Our designs take a regional approach which translates to spaces working harmoniously with the attributes of the given region. The house featured in Miami protects itself from heat gain with large overhangs and encourages outdoor use with shaded terraces and breeze ways.

Sustainable Architecture (Hospitality)

This hotel in Cartagena Colombia directs the ocean breeze into the open air, multi story, lobby while protecting it South facade from the brutal impact of the sun. Views are directed to the North.

Sustainable Architecture (Commercial)

Our team members pride ourselves to be the first design professionals to design and achieve LEED gold certification in Dade County and the City of Miami for the 2121 Biscayne Staples building. Read more on this in the case study section.

Identifying Grants and Incentives

IRS Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction Section 179D. Our services include the energy modeling required by the IRS for this credit. This service was prepared for the 2121 Biscayne Staples project and The Royal Palm Doral Center III existing building retrofit in which case both buildings errand their owners a $0.60 per square foot tax deduction. Read more in the case stud section.

A tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot is available to owners of new or existing commercial buildings that save at least 50% of the heating and cooling energy of a building that meets ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004. Partial deductions of up to $.60 per square foot can be taken for measures affecting any one of three building systems: the building envelope, lighting, or heating and cooling systems. These tax deductions are available for systems “placed in service” from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2013

USGBC certification

ECSG has been the LEED consultant on LEED for Existing Buildings, LEED New Construction, LEED Commercial Interiors, LEED Schools and LEED Core and Shell project certifications.

Environmental Impact Analysis Statements

When preparing or applying for City of Miami Major Use Special Permits (MUSP), ECSG can craft an EIAS which meets City of Miami MUSP application requirements.

Building Commissioning

ECSG partners have a strong understanding of energy efficiency and sustainable design. Commissioning adds to a projects value by ensuring appropriate equipment specification, proper installation and seamless startup operations. ECSG strives to provide peace of mind to building owners and operators while ensuring that new systems are efficiently meeting project programming goals.

Energy Modeling

Developing an energy model earlier in your design development or construction drawing development stage allows designers and owners to understand and compare the costs and benefits associated mechanical , electrical and plumbing equipment selections. ECSG uses Energy Modeling to satisfy many LEED credits and also to provide financial analysis to Owners looking to achieve the greatest energy efficiency for the least money.