Joe Iaccarino
Systems West Engineers |
Speaker
Track A: Mastering Energy Management
Session A3: Cutting Costs with Data
March 12, 2026 | 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Evaluating Decarbonization Potential in Natatoriums
| Natatoriums are among the most energy-intensive building types in the non-industrial sector. Energy Use Intensities (EUIs) for natatoriums frequently exceed 500 kBtu/sf/year and are driven primarily by the thermal loads associated with swimming pools. With pool heating often accounting for more than 70% of a natatorium’s total EUI, accurately estimating its hourly profile is critical to producing reliable energy models that can capture the decarbonization potential of this thermal load. Despite its importance, pool heating remains one of the most uncertain and challenging components of natatorium energy models due to its process-driven nature.
This study examines two recently renovated natatoriums in Eugene, Oregon, where the primary project objective was decarbonization. Design-phase energy models were developed using historical utility data to inform baseline and proposed conditions and were compared against post-renovation utility bills and building automation system trend data. The study evaluates the accuracy of the design team’s initial approach to modeling pool heating hourly demand while highlighting common challenges in estimating and decarbonizing these process loads. It concludes with a proposed methodology aimed at improving the reliability of modeling pool heating loads for future natatorium energy modeling efforts. |
Speaker Bio
With a background in evaluation, measurement, and verification (EM&V), Joe has over a decade of hands-on experience in energy efficiency consulting. His knowledge in analysis and modeling of energy-saving measures spans residential, multifamily, commercial, and industrial buildings.
A licensed professional mechanical engineer, energy expert, and sustainable design advocate, Joe provides real-time energy modeling and integrated energy analysis for high-performance buildings.