Michael Sawford

Senior Consultant

Michael Sawford brings over 17 years of experience in building energy modeling, simulation software development, and technical consulting across the utility, policy, and high-performance building sectors. At A2 Efficiency, he applies his deep simulation expertise to support carbon reduction initiatives, utility-funded research, and codes and standards development. He translates complex energy performance data into clear, actionable insights for stakeholders, including policymakers, utilities, owners, developers, engineers, and architects. His strong capabilities in strategic planning and project management help ensure research and consulting projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.

Prior to joining A2 Efficiency, Michael spent 14 years at EDSL, developers of the Tas simulation platform, where he held several leadership roles, including Software Developer, Director of Energy Analytics, and Vice President. He also served as Director of Energy Analytics at CRH, where he led performance analysis and developed custom simulation and visualization tools to support high-performance envelope design. These tools were used by companies such as Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope and Halfen to evaluate and specify building envelope components, including thermally broken connectors and glazing systems.

Michael contributes to national and international industry initiatives through ongoing work with ASHRAE and IBPSA. He has served on multiple committees, including ASHRAE SSPC 209 (simulation-aided design) and ASHRAE SPC 229 (automated building simulation ruleset checking). He also participates in IBPSA initiatives, such as Project StaSIO, which focuses on improving the communication of simulation insights.

Michael lives with his partner and two young children. He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and playing soccer. When not decoding energy models, he’s often decoding LEGO instructions or fixing whatever suddenly stopped working. 

Education

B.S. with Honors, Mathematics and Physics, University of York, UK

Professional Involvement

ASHRAE Standard 209 Committee voting member

ASHRAE SPC 229 Committee voting member

IBPSA-USA Architectural Research & Emerging Technology Research Committee

Founding member of Project StaSIO