Author/Contributor: ENBIX, Volta Research
Summary:
The Builder Explorer Modelling Tool was created for designers, builders, and developers to quickly assess how certain design choices will affect home energy performance. Developed by Volta Research in collaboration with ENBIX, the high-level energy modelling tool aims to support Alberta’s building industry in advancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
With a few clicks, users can explore how envelope and mechanical system options impact energy use and emissions. The tool provides insight into cost-effective pathways for building beyond code, helping users make better design decisions early in the process.
How it works:
- Define your home
Start by selecting the type of home (single-detached, single-detached with attached garage, duplex/row house, duplex/row house with attached garage), whether it has a basement, the house’s location (climate zone), and window-to-wall ratios for the front and rear façades. - Explore energy measures
Mix and match different combinations of envelope and mechanical system upgrades to compare their effects on energy savings, heat loss reduction, and emissions. - Analyze results
Use the interactive parallel coordinates plot to visualize relationships between measures and outcomes. Filter, compare, and identify the most effective options for your project. - Estimate costs
Enter capital cost data and edit costs to identify the lowest-cost pathways to achieving your energy performance goals. - Save or export results
Save your selections to review later or export your data to CSV for further analysis.
Whether you’re looking to design more efficient homes or test some “what-if” scenarios before full energy modelling, the Builder Explorer Modelling Tool offers a fast, free and and practical starting point for energy-smart design.
