Creating a Model

Getting started is easy. Create a model in four simple steps.

1. Define the Building

Start by selecting a building type, location, floor area and the space asset areas that make up the building. You can then decide to either accept the default modeling inputs, which are derived from industry standard ASHRAE values, or select the “Enable Detailed Inputs” mode and enter known building attributes. Building definition inputs include characteristics such as building operation schedule, thermostat setpoints, building geometry and orientation, plug loads, and other similar inputs that define the building load.

2. Define the HVAC

When performing an HVAC life-cycle cost analysis – you can choose to compare up to three HVAC systems side-by-side, while holding all other aspects of the building constant. NEO helps simplify the process by offering you the option to select from an HVAC template that presents a number of common system configurations. You may also decide to define your own HVAC system if you have a more complex system to represent, or the project has multiple systems serving the building.

When performing a Rating analysis where the study is comparing the energy conservation measures (ECM) to a baseline model or existing conditions – you may define your proposed mechanical system, again by either choosing a template or by defining your own, which in turn directs NEO to generate “smart strategy” ECM’s in the analysis portion of the tool, customized for the system you’ve selected.

3. Define the Financials

The HVAC life-cycle cost analysis gives you the ability to review and edit equipment first cost, replacement cost, maintenance cost, and equipment life. Additionally, you can define the parameters of the analysis itself, including the length of the study in years, the interest and inflation rates of the dollar, utility inflation rates, and more. If the financial, equipment, and study information is unknown – NEO utilizes RS Means and current US Energy Information Administration (EIA) data to provide default financial projections.

4. Get the Comparison

For the HVAC life-cycle cost analysis you get an in-depth view of the HVAC system comparison and are able to quickly and easily see how the options stack up with each other. The dynamic “Visualizations” view lets you explore the results from a number of different graphical perspectives such as total cost, cost by end use, energy by end use, and more – allowing for a deep understanding of how each system within the building performs when compared to the others.

The Rating analysis takes you to an interface that outlines the energy, financial, and ROI results from both a measure and “bundled” whole-building perspective when compared to the selected baseline or existing conditions. In the results comparison view you can choose from a menu of hundreds of available measures that are applicable to your building. Once a measure is applied to your bundle, NEO will automatically run the simulation to provide you with results in seconds. Finally, you’ll also have the flexibility to easily update the efficiency level and project costs from the default values to customize the model and provide you with the information that best informs your specific project goals.

Validated Data, Decades of Experience

NEO is a standardized energy-model builder that uses data points collected over decades of design work. This experience gives you access to hundreds of proven energy-efficiency options specific to your project. You can compare, contrast and make more informed decisions knowing you’ll have trusted data at your fingertips.