SLEB-NovA! Methodology for Building Energy Conservation Calculation

MAS Project NovA! and BCA SLEB Smart Hub Collaborate on White Paper for Energy Conservation in Buildings

The Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) Project NovA! and the Building and Construction Authority's (BCA) SLEB Smart Hub have jointly published the "Methodology of Energy Conservation Calculation for Buildings" white paper. This document is now available for download here.

The white paper introduces a comprehensive and standardized methodology for calculating energy conservation in buildings. Developed through the collaboration of MAS and BCA, it is designed to quantify energy savings in retrofitted and operational buildings, thereby advancing Singapore's sustainability goals and supporting its green building initiatives.

Key Components of the Methodology

1. Energy Conservation Calculation (ECC):
   A systematic approach for measuring energy savings by comparing actual energy consumption to a baseline. The baseline is typically set at a 50–60% improvement over 2005 Green Mark benchmarks.

2. AI-Driven Modelling:
   An innovative tool that enhances energy performance assessment by minimizing input requirements and computation time while maintaining high accuracy.

3. Data Collection Framework:
   A structured process for gathering essential data, including building attributes, energy consumption metrics, and system specifications, to ensure consistency and reliability across assessments.

4. Baseline Establishment:
   A tailored methodology for creating a customized baseline for each building, taking into account its unique operational dynamics and characteristics.

5. Energy Saving Calculations:
   Detailed procedures for quantifying energy savings and calculating reductions in carbon emissions based on implemented Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs).

Applications of the Methodology

The methodology supports a range of practical applications, including:

• Issuance of Energy Conservation Certificates: Recognizing buildings that achieve significant energy savings.
• Generation of Emission Reduction Units: Facilitating participation in carbon trading schemes.
• Facilitation of Green Loans: Providing a robust basis for financing energy-efficient projects.
• Facilitation of Sustainability-Linked Loans: Assisting in the structuring of loans tied to sustainability performance targets.
• Potential Linkage to Financial Incentives: Aligning with programs that promote energy efficiency and sustainability in the built environment.

Advancing Sustainability and Green Finance

This methodology represents a significant step forward in integrating energy conservation metrics with financial mechanisms. By providing a clear, standardized framework, it enables stakeholders across the built environment and financial sectors to make informed decisions that contribute to Singapore's green building targets.