#Energy Efficiency #Japan #Tokyo #YKK AP #one building

Introduction

YKK AP Corporation, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, in collaboration with One Building, a technology-driven firm based in Meguro, Tokyo, has officially launched a new free service aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in non-residential building designs. The Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service, made available from October 16, is designed to assist architectural firms and general contractors in the verification and automatic calculation of exterior performance metrics necessary for energy efficiency assessments.

Service Overview

The Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service is a revolutionary tool that simplifies the complex process of evaluating energy performance. Designed primarily for architectural staff and general contractor designers, this web-based service allows users to input data without needing extensive BIM knowledge or specialized energy calculation expertise. By following straightforward guidance, users can quickly assess the exterior performance index (BPIm) and produce vital input sheets required for energy efficiency applications (WEBPRO) at no cost.

YKK AP is a prominent provider of windows and building materials that significantly impact energy efficiency. The company’s collaboration with One Building includes sharing information on non-residential products, which will enhance the initial setup of the service. The two firms have worked closely to refine the service for user-friendliness leading to its public release. This initiative supports compliance with new energy efficiency regulations set to take effect in April 2025 and subsequent years.

Key Features of the Service

1. User-Friendly Web Access: The service can be accessed easily through any web browser without requiring software downloads. Users can rely on their internet-connected devices to utilize the service anytime, anywhere. The platform’s guided interface ensures that even first-time users can quickly understand their building’s energy efficiency.
2. Automatic WEBPRO Input Sheet Generation: The service can automatically create the necessary input sheets for energy efficiency application submissions, providing seamless integration into the regulatory requirements.
3. Comprehensive Coverage for Non-Residential Structures: The web application accommodates various types of non-residential buildings, ranging from offices to hospitals and hotels, allowing architects to evaluate energy performance from the design phase.

Background and Industry Challenges

As of April 2025, compliance with energy efficiency standards will be mandatory for all new buildings, placing additional burdens on design teams to conduct energy calculations early in the project lifecycle. Previously, the evaluation of energy performance typically occurred in the later stages of the design process, often leading to time-consuming revisions and cost overruns when adjustments were necessary to meet standards. Given the increasing complexity of regulatory requirements, a solution that streamlines the energy performance assessment is critical.

The Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service addresses these challenges by offering a platform where all designers can easily perform energy assessments early in the design process, thus enhancing their workflow and minimizing potential delays.

Collaborative Development

One Building’s approach integrates advanced technology into building design, aiming to create sustainable solutions for contemporary architectural challenges. Through the partnership with YKK AP, the Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service can offer accurate simulations based on pre-set product information that reflects market realities. Designers can explore how early decisions regarding building orientation, shape, and window specifications can significantly affect overall energy performance.

Subscription and Further Resources

Anyone interested in utilizing this innovative energy performance tool can access the Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service via the following link: Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service.

Upcoming Online Information Session

YKK AP is hosting an online session on the Energy Efficiency Inspection Web Service. These sessions will cover operational guides, effective utilization, and the advantages of using the service. Sessions are scheduled for October 22, 31, and November 5 and 10, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. All interested parties are invited to register for free, with limited slots available for each session.

About One Building

One Building is a Climate Tech company that aims to design the future of architecture through technology. By integrating and utilizing digital tools, the company promotes sustainable architectures focused on optimizing building performance and longevity, pushing the boundaries of next-generation building design.