Which unit is used to measure thermal energy in the context of building performance?

The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the correct choice for measuring thermal energy in the context of building performance. A BTU is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at a constant pressure. This unit is fundamental in evaluating the heating and cooling requirements of buildings as it quantifies the energy transfer related to temperature changes.

In building performance, understanding thermal energy in terms of BTUs helps in terms of sizing heating and cooling systems, assessing energy consumption, and managing overall building energy efficiency. When comparing different heating or cooling processes, BTUs provide a clear metric for efficiency that can be used for calculating energy costs and performance, making it essential for anyone involved in building analysis.

The other units listed have different applications; for instance, Cubic Foot per Minute (CFM) measures air flow, Kilowatt Hour (kWh) measures electrical energy consumption, and Heat Transfer Units refer to a more theoretical perspective without direct usage in practical thermal energy measurement in buildings. This reinforces why BTU is the most appropriate unit for thermal energy measurement in the context of building performance.