As the architecture industry continues its march toward a more sustainable future, we’re proud to announce that cove.tool has been recognized as assisting in the most energy modeled for AIA's 2030 DDx Reporting in their recent By the Numbers report for 2023.

With an impressive 705 million gross square feet (GSF) modeled, cove.tool leads the way, setting a new standard for how energy modeling can transform the design process.

While energy modeling is traditionally viewed as technical utilities, cove.tool is reshaping the conversation—offering integrated services that empower architects to bring consulting expertise to the table, backed by real-time data.

The Value of Energy Modeling in 2030 Reporting

One of the common misconceptions about the AIA 2030 Commitment is that energy modeling is required to report projects—but it’s not. However, it’s becoming a core part of how firms approach sustainable design.

In 2023 alone, 426 of the 490 reporting firms energy-modeled at least one whole-building project, with 115 firms going so far as to model their entire portfolios. This represents almost a quarter of all reporting firms—a significant rise as we move closer to the 2030 target.

What’s driving this shift? Data.

As the architecture industry grapples with the challenges of decarbonization, energy modeling is proving to be an indispensable tool. It allows architects to harness data not only to meet environmental goals but also to inform client conversations, optimize design decisions, and create more resilient, energy-efficient buildings.

cove.tool: A Technology-Enabled Consulting Solution

At its core, cove.tool offers a holistic solution that enables architects to leverage energy data in meaningful ways. This isn’t about running calculations behind the scenes; it’s about providing professionals with the insights they need to engage clients in a data-driven dialogue.

Whether it’s presenting the energy savings of a proposed design or comparing sustainable options, cove.tool helps architects make the case for high-performance design with ease and precision.

This approach is critical as we near the 2030 deadline. While initial project costs may deter some clients from integrating energy modeling, the long-term payback in performance, sustainability, and cost savings is undeniable.

When architects can clearly demonstrate the benefits of energy-efficient design—thanks to cove.tool’s intuitive platform—they elevate the conversation from software outputs to consulting expertise.

2030 and Beyond: Building a Data-Driven Culture

The AIA report highlights that achieving the 2030 goals isn’t just about individual projects; it’s about shifting firm culture.

For firms to truly lead in sustainability, they need to integrate data into every phase of their work. This means:

• Modeling energy use at multiple design stages to drive passive design strategies and energy efficiency.

• Moving away from fossil fuels through building electrification.

• Utilizing on-site and off-site renewable energy sources.

• Tracking and reducing embodied carbon across projects to cut greenhouse gas emissions throughout the lifecycle of a building.

With cove.tool as a partner, firms are better equipped to make these shifts and embed sustainability into their everyday practice.

Whether you're modeling an individual building or a full portfolio, cove.tool offers a streamlined, comprehensive solution that helps firms stay ahead of the curve.

Looking Ahead to 2030

As we move closer to 2030, the architecture industry is on the cusp of transformative change. Energy modeling, once a niche service, is now front and center in the push for carbon-neutral buildings.

cove.tool is leading the charge as a strategic enabler of better, data-informed architecture.

We’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement, helping firms of all sizes take actionable steps toward a more sustainable future.

Key Takeaways:

• cove.tool was named the top energy modeling tool in AIA’s 2023 By the Numbers report.

• 705 million GSF modeled, far outpacing competitors.

• Energy modeling is a key consulting tool, not just a technical requirement.

• Nearly a quarter of firms reporting in 2023 modeled their entire portfolios.

• Data-driven decisions are critical as we approach the 2030 Commitment deadline.

• cove.tool enables firms to integrate sustainability into their culture and client conversations.

Let’s build the future of sustainable architecture—one model at a time.