3.1. Background on energy efficiency for large buildings

Pathways for the H1 energy efficiency insulation provisions for large buildings.

3.1.1. There are currently three main ways to comply

Like for housing and small buildings, there are three compliance pathways for the H1 energy efficiency insulation provisions for large buildings:

  • The schedule method which prescribes tabulated minimum construction R-values for the roof, walls, windows, doors, skylights and floors of a building based on its location in the country.
  • The calculation method which is based on simple equations and allows a designer to customise the insulation levels between different building elements to give the same relative heat loss as a building that complies with the schedule method.
  • The modelling method which uses computer modelling to demonstrate that the proposed building does not require more heating and cooling energy than a reference building that complies with the schedule method. It provides the greatest flexibility to customise insulation levels.

3.1.2. Insulation requirements vary between six climate zones

The insulation requirements specified in Acceptable Solution H1/AS2 and Verification Method H1/VM2 for large buildings vary between the same six climate zones that are also used for housing and small buildings.