[Equest-users] eQuest 6.4 and EPAct

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Hi All,
I have a model done in 3.64 (baseline is calibrated to utility) and proposed
with the ECM's. Now the owner wants to file for EPAct tax credits. I have
not done this before, so some questions:

1. eQuest 6.4 is not on the list, only 6.3 - do I have to shift the model to
6.3?
2. I haven't finished reading the EPAct stuff completely, but quick glance
through mentions ASHRAE 2001 as baseline. So, that means I have to generate
a whole new baseline model ??
3. Do I have to keep in mind any specific issues while modeling the proposed
(and the baseline)?
4. What all paperwork is involved?
5. How much time will all this take?

Thanks for any inputs - really appreciate it.
-Rohini

R B's picture
R B
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Joined: 2011-09-30
Reputation: 4

Rohini:

I have performed some models for IRS Section 179D. I would assume that 3.64 is
alright but I would try opening the project in 3.63 just to play it safe.

Yes, the baseline building shall conform to 90.1-2001.

The paperwork required is not defined very clearly. It does not have to be
submitted to the IRS but kept on file by the entity taking the credit. You can
either print out the entire detailed simulation report, or as I have done, write
it to a CD.

There are no specific issues to keep in mind when modeling the baseline and
proposed as long as the baseline conforms to 90.1-2001.

It takes about as much time to prepare the Section 179D model as it does to
prepare a LEED model.

An important note is that the simulator needs to be either a professional
engineer or contractor licensed in the jurisdiction that the building is located
in. The IRS does not specify what type of contractor. So if you are neither
and want the job, you can apply for a home improvement contractors license which
does not require any schooling or require you to serve as an apprentice or
journey-person for 2 to 4 years.

Paul Diglio

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Joined: 2011-09-30
Reputation: 400

Rohini, one other point is that the professional engineer or contractor
licensed in the jurisdiction must make an inspection of the as-built
property.

The attached document from NREL is referenced as the official guide for
these projects, hopefully it helps fill in some info.

David

*
*

David S. Eldridge, Jr., P.E., LEED AP BD+C, BEMP, BEAP, HBDP

*
*

*From:* equest-users-bounces at lists.onebuilding.org [mailto:
equest-users-bounces at lists.onebuilding.org] *On Behalf Of *R B
*Sent:* Tuesday, September 20, 2011 1:23 PM
*To:* eQUEST Users List
*Subject:* [Equest-users] eQuest 6.4 and EPAct

Hi All,

I have a model done in 3.64 (baseline is calibrated to utility) and proposed
with the ECM's. Now the owner wants to file for EPAct tax credits. I have
not done this before, so some questions:

1. eQuest 6.4 is not on the list, only 6.3 - do I have to shift the model to
6.3?

2. I haven't finished reading the EPAct stuff completely, but quick glance
through mentions ASHRAE 2001 as baseline. So, that means I have to generate
a whole new baseline model ??

3. Do I have to keep in mind any specific issues while modeling the proposed
(and the baseline)?

4. What all paperwork is involved?

5. How much time will all this take?

Thanks for any inputs - really appreciate it.

-Rohini

David S Eldridge's picture
Joined: 2011-09-30
Reputation: 2000

My two cents, since?I did one of these.
?
1) Yes, it currently needs to be done in 3.63. I THINK, if you call the .INP file something else, and call it up in 3.63, your model should be fine.
?
2) Yes the base model should be in ASHRAE-90.1-2001
?
3) Paperwork should be on EPACT website.
?
4) Took me about 60 hours, soup to nuts. And?I am not the fastest modeler in the West.
?
Hope that helps.
?John R. Aulbach, PE, CEM

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Joined: 2011-09-30
Reputation: 1