What does lower EUI indicate about energy performance?

• A. Better energy performance.
• B. Worse energy performance.
• C. More occupant discomfort.
• D. Higher energy costs.

Answer: (A)

Lower energy use per unit area means the building uses less energy to heat, cool, light, and power equipment for each square foot over a year. Since EUI measures energy intensity relative to space, a lower number directly signals more efficient energy performance. It’s a normalization that lets you compare buildings of different sizes on equal footing. This focuses on energy consumption, not occupant comfort, which can vary for reasons beyond energy use. Lower EUI often correlates with lower energy costs, but costs also depend on energy prices and usage patterns.