Niveau : M.Sc.A.
Domaines de recherche : Automatisation, BIM, Réglementation.

Assessing the Effectiveness of BIM in Achieving Compliance with NECB Energy Efficiency Pathways

Abstract

This research examines the role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in improving compliance with the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB). The NECB includes three compliance pathways: prescriptive, trade-off, and performance-based, which can be complex and time-consuming to verify using traditional manual methods. This study explores how BIM can support more efficient and accurate compliance processes by integrating regulatory requirements within digital building models.

Through a structured analytical framework and a practical case study, the research evaluates BIM’s ability to facilitate automated rule-checking and energy performance assessment. The findings suggest that BIM enhances compliance efficiency, reduces reliance on manual verification, and improves overall transparency in regulatory evaluation. However, challenges related to data interoperability and rule interpretation remain. Overall, the study highlights BIM’s potential to support digital transformation in energy code compliance.

Domaines de recherche : Automatisation, BIM, Réglementation.

Résultats du projet

This research is expected to demonstrate that BIM significantly enhances the automation, accuracy, and efficiency of compliance verification with the NECB. By structuring NECB provisions into machine-readable formats and integrating them within BIM workflows, the study shows that regulatory validation can be partially automated across prescriptive, trade-off, and performance-based pathways. The results highlight improved consistency in rule-checking, reduced reliance on manual verification, and greater transparency in compliance assessment. A practical case study illustrates the feasibility of automating specific NECB requirements within a BIM environment. However, the findings also identify limitations related to rule interpretability, data interoperability, and the current constraints of IFC standards. Overall, the research contributes to bridging regulatory frameworks and digital design processes, supporting the transition toward more efficient and digitally integrated energy compliance practices in the construction industry.

Contributions du projet

This research contributes to both academic knowledge and industry practice by advancing the integration of BIM with regulatory compliance processes. Academically, it proposes a structured framework for transforming NECB provisions into machine-readable formats and evaluating their automation potential through IFC-based workflows. The study expands understanding of how digital tools can support automated code compliance checking across different energy compliance pathways. From an industry perspective, the research demonstrates how BIM can reduce manual verification efforts, improve compliance accuracy, and increase transparency in energy code assessment. By validating the approach through a practical case study, the study provides a scalable methodology that supports digital transformation in construction and promotes more efficient energy compliance practices.

Équipe de recherche

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