Independence High School, San Jose, CA

Image Credit: SVA Architects

Category: Educational

Energy Modeling Components: Envelope, Mechanical, Domestic Hot Water, Lighting

Reason for Energy Modeling: Performance Compliance with the California Energy Code

Completion Date: 2021

Owner: East Side Union High School District

Architect: SVA Architects

For the Independence High School's Student Union, our team conducted a comprehensive energy modeling analysis. The results showcased a remarkable 10.8% improvement over the standard design, underscoring the efficacy of our approach. The design we modeled incorporated high-efficiency electric heat-pump packaged units for air-conditioning, paired with an instantaneous gas water heater. A significant component of our energy model was the building envelope. This consisted of wood-stud walls fortified with R-19 insulation, and fenestration characterized by a u-factor of 0.55 and a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.55. Our energy modeling insights proved invaluable to the architect, enabling them to make informed material selections. These choices not only fit within the owner's budgetary constraints but also surpassed the performance metrics of a baseline or standard building.