Oyster Works Selects Ekotrope Software for Energy Modeling
Energy-efficient building software utilized in whole system analysis for residential and commercial building projects
Cambridge, MA and Charlestown, RI – August 1, 2012 – Ekotrope, a world-leading developer of software for analyzing and designing energy-efficient buildings, has been selected by award-winning architecture and construction firm Oyster Works to compare and analyze building components and systems for residential and commercial projects. Oyster Works, co-founded by Andrew Baer and Megan Moynihan, AIA, is a full-service architecture, design and project management firm specializing in Sensibly Green architecture and construction. Ekotrope’s software suite, using advanced algorithmic technology originating from MIT, allows users to analyze energy-efficient and cost-effective configurations of different building envelopes, heating and cooling systems. By analyzing whole systems and comparing different configurations architects, developers, builders and individual consumers are able to find the sweet spot that saves energy, lowers operating costs, and provides a return on investment. Oyster Works has started using the Ekotrope software on a range of commercial and residential projects, including: Churchwoods Affordable Housing, South County Tourism Council, Boy Scouts of America; and numerous residential buildings.
Andrew Baer, co-founder of Oyster Works, said: “After searching for an energy analysis tool that did more than simply focus on a single energy component, we found the solution – Ekotrope. Oyster Works embraces a Sensibly Green approach that prioritizes energy efficiency and provides a return on investment. We needed a tool that would support our goals. Ekotrope provides Oyster Works with a user friendly system that produces accurate, easy to understand results. We are especially pleased with the support and backup Ekotrope provides.”
VP of Ekotrope, Blake Bisson, said: “We are thrilled to begin a working relationship with Oyster Works as we share a similar sentiment when it comes to energy-efficient buildings - architects, builders, developers and homeowners alike should have the resources to quickly and intelligently analyze a building’s entire envelope, taking into consideration energy and cost goals. By understanding energy modeling and analysis during the design process, Ekotrope can save its users costly changes during construction, ensuring green buildings become a necessity instead of a challenge.”Oyster Works’ recently completed project, Charlestown Wine and Spirits, has received recognition for its whole systems energy-saving design. After comparing 12 months of actual energy usage against national benchmarks, U.S. Government Energy Star gave Charlestown Wine and Spirits an Energy Performance Rating of 100, on a scale of 1 to 100. Energy use is estimated to be 70 percent less than comparable stores.
For more information about Oyster Works, including its award winning projects and services, please visit OysterWorks.net or email info@oysterworks.net. Ekotrope software product suite licensing is available for $149 per month for one concurrent active project. For more information about Ekotrope, pricing, or a free trial, please visit Ekotrope.com. About Ekotrope Inc. Ekotrope.com
Ekotrope Inc. is the developer of Ekotrope (formerly HomeSEED), unique software for analyzing, managing and designing energy-efficient buildings while optimizing energy and cost analysis, adhering to strict regulations and meeting certifications. Headquartered in Cambridge, MA, Ekotrope’s optimization engine was designed by MIT Aeronautics and Astronautics Professor Edward F. Crawley, following his search for a solution that would provide practical help in designing an energy efficient home. In 2010, Crawley could not find an existing solution for his architect to easily analyze component tradeoffs to find the best energy and investment combination. He drew on NASA technology and assembled a select group of industry experts to come up with the Ekotrope solution.
Today, Ekotrope’s flagship software is trusted by architects, energy analysts, builders, subcontractors and consumers to visualize and compare opportunities to reduce energy costs.Ekotrope is a trademark of Ekotrope, Inc.About Oyster Works OysterWorks.net Oyster Works, a certified Women's Business Enterprise (DBE/WBE), is an architecture and project management firm based in Charlestown, RI. We design and build Sensibly Green projects throughout Rhode Island, the Northeast, and in New York City. As architects we design thoughtful commercial and residential buildings and interiors. As project managers we are responsible for every aspect of the project, from permitting to general contracting. Our Sensibly Green approach incorporates energy efficient building systems that make sense for your project and your budget.