Energy Modeling for Energy Code Compliance

Blink Energy Services provides performance-based energy modeling to support code compliance, above-code programs, and informed design decisions. As experienced energy compliance consultants, we help project teams determine the right compliance path and clearly understand how design choices affect building performance.

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SUMMARY

Performance-Based Compliance and
Targeted Analysis

Energy modeling is a performance-based method for demonstrating energy code compliance and evaluating the impact of design decisions on building performance.

Many projects rely on modeling when prescriptive paths such as COMcheck or REScheck are not the best fit, or when programs like AEGB or NGBS require documented performance.

If you are unsure whether your project needs an energy model, Blink can determine the correct approach during a quick project review.

WHAT IS ENERGY MODELING?

Understanding Energy Modeling

Energy modeling uses specialized software to estimate how a building will use energy based on its envelope, mechanical systems, lighting, and controls.

In Plain Language: An energy model predicts how efficiently a building will operate and shows whether the proposed design meets energy code requirements.

BASELINE VS. PROPOSED DESIGN

How Performance Modeling Works

Energy modeling compares two versions of the same building.

The comparison between these two models determines whether the project meets the required performance threshold for compliance or program participation.

Baseline Model

A code-minimum reference design

Proposed Model:

The actual design you plan to build

WHY ENERGY MODELING MATTERS

When Performance-Based Modeling Is the Right Tool

Modeling provides clarity early in design and supports smarter,
data-driven decisions.

Energy modeling is especially valuable when:

Prescriptive Requirements cannot be

met or are financially burdensome

Flexibility is needed between envelope,

mechanical, and lighting systems

AEGB or NGBS requires

performance verification

Owners want clarity to guide

design decisions

Variances or alternative compliance

methods must be justified

Understanding long-term operational

impacts is important

WHY MODEL INSTEAD OF USING COMCHECK OR RESCHECK

When Modeling Is Better Than Prescriptive Compliance

Blink helps teams evaluate whether modeling or prescriptive
compliance is the most efficient and effective approach.

Performance modeling may be the better choice when:

Prescriptive paths are too
restrictive

The building has complex glazing or
shading conditions

System trade-offs are required to meet
the code

Above-code programs require
performance scoring

Reduce project costs and maintain
energy compliance

Reducing mechanical capacity or
envelope cost is a priority

TYPES OF ENERGY MODELS WE PROVIDE

Energy Modeling Services by
Project Need

We support multiple use cases and group our energy modeling services into
three categories:

Code Compliance Modeling

Used when a project requires a performance-based compliance path instead of prescriptive documentation.

Above-Code Program Modeling

Used when programs such as AEGB or NGBS require documented performance verification.

Design and Optimization Modeling

Used to compare design options and understand how envelope or mechanical decisions impact energy use and cost.

IS PERFORMANCE MODELING RIGHT FOR YOUR PROJECT?

Determining the Correct Compliance Path

Blink can review your project design and confirm whether performance-based modeling is required or if a prescriptive approach, such as COMcheck or REScheck, is sufficient.

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TIMELINE

Energy Modeling Schedule
Expectations

Energy modeling typically requires 3 to 6 weeks, depending on project size and complexity.
The process is most effective when started early in design, allowing time for collaboration,
optimization, and meaningful decision-making before permitting.

Week 1

Project Kickoff

Week 2

Data Collection

Week 3

Model Development

Week 4

Analysis

Week 5

Optimization

Week 6

Final Report

Typical: 3–4 weeks

Complex: 5–6 weeks

HOW BLINK HELPS

Practical Support from Energy Compliance Consultants

We focus on compliance clarity, explaining how the energy model supports the chosen compliance path and what the results mean.

We simplify design decisions by translating modeling outputs into clear summaries that support efficient and informed choices.

We support program documentation, preparing the required deliverables for AEGB, NGBS, and municipal review.

We keep projects moving. Energy modeling is coordinated to minimize rework and avoid delays during the plan review and permitting process.

OUR PROCESS

Our Energy Modeling Approach

Scope Review

We confirm whether modeling is required and which performance path applies.

Data Collection

We gather envelope, mechanical, lighting, and control system information.

Model Development

We develop baseline and proposed models using the applicable standards.

Results Review

We provide a clear summary and discuss how results affect your project.

Final Documentation

We prepare the reports required for municipal review or above-code programs.

NEED HELP?

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my project require an energy model?

It depends on design features, jurisdiction, and program requirements. Blink can determine this during an initial review.

Can energy modeling replace COMcheck or REScheck?

Yes. Many projects use modeling instead of prescriptive compliance when flexibility is needed.

Will modeling delay my project?

No. Modeling is most effective when it is started early in the design process. Blink works with project schedules to avoid delays.

Is modeling useful even if COMcheck is possible?

Yes. Modeling can reveal cost-saving opportunities, support value engineering decisions, and evaluate mechanical strategies.

Nationwide Energy
Modeling Services

Blink Energy Services provides energy modeling and compliance support
nationwide, working closely with project teams, municipalities, and third-
party inspectors across the U.S.

NEXT STEP

Request Energy Modeling
Support

If your project requires a performance-based compliance path or you want clarity on design impacts, Blink Energy Services can prepare a clear, compliant energy model.