You already know what Energy Use Intensity is, so here's a handy tool for you.
"Wait, George, I don't actually know what Energy Use Intensity is", my name is not George, but you came to the right place, because the next paragraph will educate you in the topic of EUI.
Energy use intensity is simply the amount of energy consumed by a building, divided by the area where it is consumed. It is a normalized type of data, which is useful because it brings different values into a comparable context. Read more about that here.
Engineers and other people at EnergyStar talk about site vs source EUI, which is a way of saying that a building can only be as sustainable as the systems that feed it.
Applying Source Energy on a Global Scale
Although EnergyStar came up with the concept, it isn’t limited to any one country; it’s a universal approach that can be applied anywhere. No matter where you are, the principle remains the same: source energy gives a full picture of how much energy a building truly consumes by accounting for production, transmission, and delivery losses. This allows for fair comparisons between buildings, regardless of location or energy supply system.
Source Energy in Different Energy Systems
Every region has its own energy mix. Some rely more on renewables like wind or hydro, while others depend on fossil fuels such as coal or natural gas. The key to applying source energy globally is converting all forms of energy—whether raw fuels or purchased electricity—into equivalent units. This ensures that buildings using different types of energy can be accurately compared, even if they are connected to grids powered by different fuel sources.
A Global Standard for Energy Efficiency
Source energy provides a fair measure of a building’s efficiency, no matter where it is located. By adopting standardized conversion factors, countries can implement a consistent method for assessing energy use. This approach helps building owners, designers, and policymakers make informed decisions, leading to smarter and more sustainable energy practices, regardless of the local energy infrastructure.
Median EUI Values, According to EnergyStar
Now, let’s tie this back to what we do at Entropica. We’re all about making sustainable design practical and accessible for architecture firms. Whether you need us for a specific simulation or want a retainer to handle all your energy modeling needs—from thermal comfort and daylight analysis to radiation studies—we’ve got you covered.
By partnering with us, you get all the expertise without the overhead of an in-house specialist.Â
We’ll help you optimize your building designs to be energy-efficient and comfortable, cutting down on waste and making sure your projects stand out for all the right reasons.
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