Each month, this section highlights the environmental messaging of a different GBI Supporting Member.

TRACE Program Facilitates Energy and Economic Analysis

A pioneer in the research and development of energy-efficient systems and services, Trane is also a leading provider of energy analysis software. 

First introduced in the 1970s, the company’s TRACE program allows building system designers to compare the impacts of (among other things) different architectural features, HVAC systems and equipment, and building utilization scenarios.  It incorporates five phases—including load, design, system simulation, equipment simulation and economic analysis—which together provide a complete energy and economic analysis.

The building’s heating and cooling load calculations, which are used in the load phase to calculate annual energy consumption, are of sufficient detail to determine the effects of building orientation, size, shape and mass, heat transfer characteristics of air and moisture, and hourly climatic data. The calculations used to simulate the operation of the building and its service systems through a full year operating period are also of sufficient detail to determine the effects of system design, climate, operational characteristics and mechanical equipment on annual energy use.  Manufacturers’ data is used for the simulation of all systems and equipment.

For building owners and leaseholders seeking to qualify for the government’s energy-efficiency tax deduction, TRACE is one of three software programs that may be used to verify improvements. It is also fully compatible with the GBI’s Green Globes environmental assessment and rating system for commercial structures.

Part of the American Standard Companies, Trane supports its commitment to green building through eight research and design centers worldwide and engineering hubs in 21 locations. For more information, please visit www.trane.com.