Suppose the model uses 100 fixtures at 40 watts, but site evidence shows 100 fixtures at 50 watts. Connected power changes from 4 kilowatts to 5 kilowatts. That discrepancy does not directly calculate annual savings, but it shows why design files alone cannot establish the final installed condition.
The ordinary route combines calculation and observation. The model evaluates a defined reference comparison; field work tests whether material assumptions reflect the property placed in service.
Calculation
The model converts supported inputs into an annual-cost comparison
Geometry, systems, schedules, controls, loads, climate, and the applicable reference standard enter qualified software. The result addresses covered annual energy and power costs—not simply connected watts or a utility-bill trend.
Keep input sources and model versions so a reviewer can follow a changed assumption through to the output.
Modeled assumption versus field observation
Connected load differs; annual savings must still be analyzed.
100 × 40 W
100 × 50 W
| Item | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Modeled fixtures | 4 kW | 100 × 40 W |
| Observed fixtures | 5 kW | 100 × 50 W |
Observation
Field review establishes relevant installed facts
The review can compare equipment, fixture quantities, controls, envelope assemblies, and operating details with drawings, submittals, and model inputs. Site access should be planned while systems and knowledgeable personnel are available.
Remote photos or documents may be useful evidence, but this article does not assert that they always satisfy the applicable inspection requirement.
Qualified roles
Designer, modeler, inspector, and certifier are distinct functions
Notice 2006-52 calls for an unrelated, appropriately licensed engineer or contractor with written qualifications for ordinary-route certification. That test is distinct from designer eligibility and the alternative retrofit route’s qualified-professional rules.
One team can coordinate the work, but the record should identify who performed each role and how independence and licensing were evaluated.
The inspection can send the analysis back
Certification follows reconciliation—not merely observation.
Design
Specifications
Model
Calculate comparison
Construction
Install systems
Inspection
Verify and update
Reconciliation
Resolve substitutions before signing certification
If observed conditions differ, document the discrepancy, obtain supporting records, update model inputs where material, and rerun the analysis when appropriate. Do not treat the inspection as a final administrative checkbox.
The signed certification should connect the final model, inspection, installed property, and retained qualifications. Form 7205 reports the claim but does not replace this underlying evidence.
Distinct project responsibilities
Each role answers a different question.
| Review point | Evidence or measure | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Designer | Authorship | Creates relevant technical specifications. |
| Modeler | Calculation | Builds the qualified-software comparison. |
| Inspector / certifier | Installed evidence | Meets applicable independence, licensing, and certification requirements. |
| CPA | Return treatment | Reconciles claimant, amount, form, and filing procedure. |
Prepare the review
Plan the technical handoff before closeout
- Issued design and approved submittals
- Model input file and software version
- Substitution and change logs
- Placed-in-service evidence
- Site-access plan
- Observed equipment and controls
- Photo and observation index
- Qualification and independence records
- Updated analysis where needed
- Signed certification and return tie-out
Continue the review
Common questions
Practical answers before the review
Can the model replace inspection?
No. The ordinary-route process includes field inspection after the property is placed in service.
Who may provide ordinary-route certification?
The cited guidance requires an unrelated, appropriately licensed engineer or contractor with written qualifications; apply current requirements to the project.
What happens when installed equipment differs?
Document the difference and assess whether inputs and analysis must be updated before certification.