717 Broadview Avenue - Energy Modelling and Loads Analysis

Toronto

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MCW Consultants Ltd. used the IESVE to develop a detailed energy model, size mechanical equipment, and determine annual energy savings of 45% on an MNECB reference model.

Key Facts

  • 45% annual savings vs. MNECB
  • 69 affordable, refurbished, rental units for seniors
  • Geothermal borehole field of 42 boreholes at 520ft depth ground-source heat pump system

Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) had an aggressive target that 717 Broadview Avenue would be 40% more energy efficient than the Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB). In order to determine whether the design team was on track for this target, MCW were contracted to carry out detailed energy modelling using the IES Virtual Environment (IESVE).

In addition to energy modelling, the IESVE model was also used as a tool to size and select the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment. The VE modules: ModelIT, SunCast, ApacheSim, ApacheHVAC, Vista and Radiance were used to carry out this analysis. As a result of the superior energy efficiency of the systems designed by MCW, TCHC was able to secure significant financial incentives from Enbridge Gas Distribution and the City of Toronto.

For this project MCW developed a detailed, hourly, whole-building energy model using the IES Virtual Environment (VE). The energy model was developed early and revised at various stages of the design process in an iterative manner. The energy model was used as the testing ground for the energy efficient technology considered by MCW throughout the process. The team was able to use the VE to determine which design options were necessary to achieve the minimum target of 40% above MNECB and which options were not contributing significant savings.

The interior refit includes a new laundry room, multi-purpose room, reading room, and superintendent’s office. The elevators were refurbished and sprinklers were installed in units and common areas. Barrier-free accessible units were equipped with appliances to meet the tenants; modified needs. Efficient lighting, ENERGY STAR® appliances, and low-flow, dual-flush toilets and low-flow shower-heads were installed with energy and water conservation in mind.

The entire structure was stripped back to the brick walls and re-insulated while new energy efficient windows were installed throughout. The Energy Recovery Ventilation systems were installed in each unit to improve and control indoor air quality. A geothermal borehole field consisting of 42 boreholes at 520ft depth was drilled to act as a heat sink/source for a ground-source heat pump system.

“The energy modelling effort was integrated with the mechanical design process to facilitate an iterative design approach where energy consumption was a critical design parameter. In the end, the design exceeded the energy target achieving 45% annual energy savings vs. MNECB.”

Brian Tysoe, MCW Consulatants

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