This project aims to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings by improving the integration between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Building Energy Modelling (BEM) while contributing to the development of an openBIM methodology. BIM consolidates relevant information about a building or project into a centralized data repository, minimizing errors and fostering collaboration throughout the building lifecycle. BEM focuses on analyzing thermal building performance, including energy use and comfort. OpenBIM promotes collaborative workflows using open data exchange standards for design and asset management.

Despite decades of effort, integrating BIM and BEM remains challenging. Issues such as incomplete data imports, errors, and the need for manual intervention undermine the benefits of BIM-BEM integration, delaying progress toward more sustainable, energy-efficient designs. Furthermore, many stakeholders have yet to fully embrace standard practices for reliable BIM-BEM data exchange.

The project also addresses barriers that prevent small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from effectively participating in large BIM projects. By reducing technological hurdles, the project aims to strengthen SMEs’ market position, enabling their involvement in high-volume projects alongside larger stakeholders.

Through real-world industry case studies, the project will focus on predicting and assessing building energy efficiency across different lifecycle stages. Anticipated outcomes include practical processes, guidelines, and best practices for designing energy-efficient buildings in an openBIM environment. This integration will help bridge the gap between estimated and actual building performance, fostering more sustainable practices for new and refurbished buildings.