Building Performance
EFFICIENCY IS OUR PASSION
We help clients achieve their energy efficiency goals,
save money, and reduce environmental impact
O'Brien360 is dedicated to supporting the long-term performance, sustainability, and livability of existing buildings. We understand that the need for efficiency and sustainability doesn't end once the ribbon is cut. That's why building performance is an important factor in a project's life cycle. We work alongside architects, owners, and mechanical engineers to help identify valuable opportunities for increased building performance. We're known for coupling technical rigor and clear communication to help clients meet and exceed their goals.
Our building performance services include:
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Energy modeling
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Building and portfolio benchmarking
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Practical, data-driven efficiency solutions
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Code compliance
OUR EXPERTISE...
Our specialized knowledge of modeling tools, advanced green building rating systems, and innovative technologies allows us to offer clients a high level of technical assistance and analysis with their building performance goals. Areas of focus include energy efficiency, thermal comfort, indoor air quality, water efficiency, and daylighting. Although every project is different, typical services we provide include:
- Early scoping, shoebox modeling, and goal setting
- Design phase energy modeling and evaluation of energy, water, and other efficiency measures
- Design review and recommendations for efficiency
- Modeling to support compliance with green building standards, such as LEED® and Built Green®
- Peer-review and assistance for other energy modelers
- Calibration of whole building energy models
- Energy code compliance analysis and documentation: Washington State Energy Code (WSEC), Seattle Energy Code (SEC), California T24, ComCheck, and more
- Utility incentive programs
- Utility Allowance modeling and calculations for low-income housing providers
- Utility bill analysis, including energy, water, and other utilities
- Simple payback and life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA)
- 12-month post-occupancy comparison of energy model results to actual utility bills included with most contracts
- Energy audits and other on-site assessment of building systems
- Portfolio and individual building benchmarking
Additional Services:
- Thermal comfort analysis
- Embodied carbon analysis
- Daylight analysis
- Air quality testing
- Research and policy analysis
Apart from project work, we develop tools for code compliance analysis studies. Currently, we're engaged in a study comparing the current energy code to the one from 2006.
WHY O'BRIEN360?
After decades in the industry, we've learned that early analysis and a willing team are key to improving building performance on any project. We are known for effective communication throughout each phase and we develop key working relationships that enhance a project's success. The ideal team will be able to work together while also "thinking outside of the box" when the need arises.