Our method: develop physics based modelling to simulate energy consumption for a full year, incorporating the building fabric, weather conditions, occupancy scheduling and optimum system selection and sizing to satisfy Section J requirements. The output hourly energy load profiles can then be used to accurately generate cost benefit modelling of additional scenarios

For example, tariff options, alternative HVAC systems selection, and building facade options too produce benefit to cost ratio (BCR) as well as the net present value (NPV) at key periods, incorporating equipment life-cycle replacement costs to understand the total cost of ownership over the long term.

To start a JV3 assessment, building designers must provide detailed building plans, which include:

• Site plan showing orientation and shading from nearby structures
• Floor plans illustrating layout and eaves
• Elevations indicating window locations, sizes, and shading
• Electrical plans detailing lighting
• Window schedule specifying glazing types, locations, and sizes

Any commercial project can use the JV3 pathway if it falls under the relevant building classes defined in the NCC. The JV3 pathway is beneficial for projects needing design flexibility or where the Section J DTS approach is too restrictive. Large or complex buildings, such as shopping centres, office buildings, and factories, often benefit the most from the JV3 approach because it allows for design trade-offs that optimise performance and reduce construction costs. Smaller projects are usually better suited for the simpler Section J DTS pathway.

The cost and delivery time of a JV3 Report varies depending on the class and size of the building. Most assessments will range from $5,000 - $15,000 (plus GST) and take around 2-weeks to deliver.

The cost and delivery time of the assessment is influenced by several factors:

• The number of different roof and wall types
• The general building characteristics
• The type of floor construction
• The amount of shading and glazing
• The number of revisions required to achieve goals and compliance

Larger projects typically take additional time to model and report.

The JV3 method is primarily applicable to commercial buildings that belong to specific building classes as defined by the NCC. These classes include:

• Class 3: Residential buildings other than houses, such as hotels or large boarding houses.
• Class 5: Office buildings or those used for professional or commercial purposes, such as government offices.
• Class 6: Retail spaces or buildings used for the sale of goods and services, such as restaurants and cafes.
• Class 7: Car parks and storage facilities.
• Class 8: Factories and buildings where goods are manufactured.
• Class 9: Public buildings including hospitals, schools, and assembly

Yes, a JV3 assessment is essential for alterations or additions to existing commercial buildings, particularly if the changes affect the building fabric. This includes modifications to design, insulation, glazing, or HVAC systems.

The JV3 assessment involves modeling the altered or additional sections to ensure compliance with Section J requirements. The specific requirements may vary based on the extent of the alterations and local regulations.

Yes, JV3 optimization can lead to significant cost savings during both construction and operation. For instance, incorporating solar panels can reduce the need for high-performance glazing while still achieving compliance. Our experience shows that cost reductions can be substantial, especially when leveraging AI modeling of alternative HVAC systems and business case modeling of benefits.

The key difference between a JV3 assessment and the Section J DTS method is their approach to compliance. The DTS method mandates that each building element, such as insulation or glazing, meets specific prescriptive standards outlined in the NCC. These standards are rigid and do not allow for trade-offs between building components.

In contrast, a JV3 assessment uses software modeling to simulate the building's overall energy performance. This approach provides flexibility by considering the interaction of different building elements, enabling trade-offs such as offsetting energy usage with solar panels or using improved insulation to reduce glazing requirements. Compliance is achieved if the proposed building's overall energy consumption is lower than that of a reference building using the DTS provisions.