Modelling & Analysis

Energy Modelling

IES VE and EnergyPlus simulation  ·  JV3, NABERS Design for Performance and Green Star energy credits

Modelling & Simulation

Ark Resources & Energy Modelling

Building energy modelling is at the core of high-performance ESD consulting. Ark Resources uses accredited simulation platforms (IES VE and EnergyPlus) to model building energy consumption, thermal comfort, daylighting and environmental performance across residential, commercial and mixed-use development types.

Our modelling supports a wide range of applications: JV3 performance solutions for NCC Section J compliance, NABERS Design for Performance energy commitments, Green Star energy credits, whole-of-building performance optimisation and climate resilience assessments. We integrate modelling early in the design process so results can inform design decisions rather than just validate them.

With 25+ years of simulation experience, our team has modelled everything from single-storey houses to 60-storey mixed-use towers. We provide clear, actionable outputs that design teams and clients can actually use.

Our Modelling Tools

Ark Resources uses IES VE and EnergyPlus for whole-building energy simulation; DesignBuilder for thermal comfort and CFD; FirstRate5 and AccuRate for NatHERS residential ratings; and specialist tools for daylighting, solar access, shading and WSUD analysis. Our models are built to the level of detail required by the target rating scheme or compliance pathway.

What We Deliver

Our Services

JV3 Performance Solutions

Whole-building energy simulation to demonstrate NCC Section J compliance via the performance pathway, enabling design flexibility beyond DTS prescriptive limits.

NABERS Energy Modelling

Energy simulation supporting NABERS Design for Performance commitments, helping commercial projects target NABERS energy ratings at design stage.

Green Star Energy Credits

Energy modelling to support Green Star energy and emissions credits, coordinated with the Green Star rating strategy.

NatHERS Thermal Ratings

Accredited NatHERS thermal performance assessments using FirstRate5 and AccuRate for residential buildings.

Thermal Comfort Analysis

Detailed thermal comfort modelling using PMV/PPD or adaptive comfort criteria, for both naturally ventilated and air-conditioned spaces.

Daylighting & Solar Access

Quantitative daylighting analysis and solar access assessments using simulation tools, supporting Green Star, WELL and council planning requirements.

Common Questions

FAQs

What building types do you model?

We model all building types: Class 1 residential houses and townhouses (NatHERS), Class 2 apartments (NatHERS or Section J), and commercial buildings including Class 3, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 (Section J / JV3, NABERS, Green Star). We also model mixed-use and industrial developments, educational facilities, healthcare buildings and public buildings.

How detailed does the model need to be?

It depends on the purpose. A JV3 model needs to capture building geometry, orientation, envelope thermal properties, glazing performance, HVAC system type and lighting loads. A NABERS Design for Performance model requires more detailed HVAC specification. We scope the model to match the requirement and build detail as design develops.

Can you coordinate energy modelling with Green Star and NABERS?

This is one of our key strengths. A single well-constructed energy model can be adapted and extended to support JV3 compliance, NABERS commitments, Green Star energy credits and building performance optimisation simultaneously, avoiding the duplication that occurs when these are modelled separately.

At what stage should energy modelling begin?

For JV3 and NABERS Design for Performance, early schematic design is ideal; the model can then inform glazing ratios, HVAC selection and facade design. For Green Star, modelling typically begins at detailed design. We can commence with outline documentation and update the model iteratively as design develops.

Get in Touch

Our Team

Get in touch to discuss your project's requirements.

Jan Talacko
Jan Talacko
Director
Email Jan
Daniel O'Loughlin
Daniel O'Loughlin
Senior ESD Engineer / NABERS Accredited
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Get Started

Need energy modelling for your project?

Ark Resources has delivered energy modelling and thermal simulation for complex commercial and residential developments for over 25 years. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

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