BUILDING SOLUTIONS

ASHRAE STANDARD 90.1

Emissions reductions and new design approaches are developed, the met-
rics and how they are used in the different compli-
ance paths have evolved resulting in more precise
results from the calculations.
ASHRAE 90.1-2022 continues this by depart-
ing from simpler, but less accurate, metrics. There
are different reasons for this evolution. One is using
metrics that more closely match the performance
characteristics obtained from equipment testing.
Another is using a more realistic frequency of out-
side air temperatures, generating performance
results that are specific to the project’s climate zone.
To illustrate this, the energy efficiency ratio metric
has evolved into integrated energy efficiency ratio,
which includes part-load equipment performance.
The 2022 edition also has several updates to the
parameters and applicability of HVAC systems and
controls such as demand control ventilation, setback
controls, garage exhaust systems and controls, ceil-
5. Building envelope: The envelope will undergo ing fan efficiencies, dehumidification control, energy
FIGURE 3: Example fewer modifications over the life of a building when recovery ventilation requirements, dedicated outside air
emissions reductions compared to HVAC and lighting systems. Previous system exemption and expanded airside economizers.
from energy efficien- editions of Standard 90.1 allowed for energy con- 7. Energy credits: Energy credits are new to
cy measures, renew- sumption trade-offs between systems and the build- ASHRAE 90.1-2022, not appearing in any of the pre-
able energy purchases ing envelope components. vious editions. In addition to meeting all base energy
and a cleaner grid. These trade-offs now have a backstop, limit- code requirements, energy credits are an addition-
Courtesy: National ing the amount that can be used for the envelope. al prescriptive method for demonstrating compli-
Renewable Energy ASHRAE received comments from different juris- ance with an estimated 5% additional energy cost
Laboratory dictions that led up to this revision. The concern is savings. Using energy credits provides flexibility for
building envelope will be in place for much longer, the building designer. The 2022 edition lists specific
increasing long-term energy use. measures that correspond to the credits., including
The 2022 edition also has several new technical measures on energy efficiency, renewable energy and
requirements for the envelope such as thermal bridg- load management. PNNL published a report in 2022
ing, insulated metal panels, wall solar reflectance analyzing the energy and cost savings from the ener-
and roof replacement. Other envelope categories gy credits that are in the new standard.
have a direct positive effect on HVAC system energy 8. Lighting: In addition to the indoor agricultur-
use: air leakage requirements and envelope commis- al grow lighting, other significant changes to light-
sioning. Increasing the integrity and thermal per- ing show up in ASHRAE 90.1-2022. The definition
formance of a building’s envelope will reduce overall of exterior lighting now extends to the building site.
energy use and increase occupant comfort. This change makes a big difference in the energy
6. Mechanical efficiency tables and system def- consumption that is calculated for the building. In
initions: The efficiency tables in Standard 90.1 li the previous editions of Standard 90.1, site lighting
st the minimum energy efficiency requirements was defined as lighting fed from an electrical panel
of HVAC and other equipment types. The metrics that is a part of the building. So, any parking lots,
apply to specific equipment types (e.g., water-cooled walkways and other exterior lighting would not be
chillers, packaged air conditioning units, heat rejec- included unless it came from the building.
tion equipment) and define how the metrics are used Also, maximum power metrics for exterior light-
in determining compliance to the standard. As per- ing were significantly reduced in ASHRAE 90.1-
formance of HVAC equipment continues to improve 2022, taking into consideration the use of LEDs and

44 | March/April 2024 consulting-Specifying engineer — www.csemag.com