Since 1992, The Weidt Group has conducted detailed energy analysis and verification services for Xcel Energy's Energy Design Assistance program (formerly Energy Assets^SM). The program’s goal is to improve the energy efficiency of new construction projects by encouraging the building owner, architect, and engineers (the design team) to implement an integrated package of energy-efficient strategies. The program has addressed nearly 400 buildings with more than 83 million square feet, saving over $24 million per year. Savings, compared to code levels, averages about 30%.

Xcel Energy's program has won numerous awards, including "The Program Most Likely to Meet the Kyoto Protocols in the Shortest Time" as determined in 2001 by the European Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.

The program features include:

Consultation
Xcel Energy covers the costs of The Weidt Group, who work with the design team to calculate relative energy impacts and costs associated with a wide range of design options. The program runs parallel with the design process and does not delay the overall construction schedule. The design team is responsible for final recommendations.

Computer Modeling
The Weidt Group uses a sophisticated computer modeling program to simulate the building’s energy use based on its layout, materials, load and Minnesota weather conditions.

Performance Verification
Upon project completion, Xcel Energy will verify the implementation and performance of the specified energy-savings measures.

Xcel Energy provides design fee reimbursements to offset the design time costs associated with participating in the process, as well as owner incentives to help offset the cost of the energy-efficiency improvements.