All About Energy-modelling and Building Simulation

Energy-modelling is the virtual simulation of a building or an apartment that focuses on energy consumption, utility bills, and other electronics items such as light, hot water, and air conditioning. It is also utilized to evaluate green energy solutions like wind turbines, solar panels, photovoltaics, and other high efficiency appliances. In order to understand the energy modeling, firstly building energy simulation must be known.

Building simulation is a virtual replica of a building. There are many factors which affect the building, one such factor is the weather condition in the entire year. Building simulation is divided into two major parts, one is load design and other one is energy-analysis. When energy is involved in building simulation it is known as Energy-modelling.

Load Design Determination

• The amount of air needed to cool or heat a space or volumetric airflow requirements
• Air conditioning loads
• Equipment capacities as it requires multiple spaces
• Supply temperatures
• Hydronic plant capacities

Energy modeling is used to:

• Predict the annual consumption of energy;
• Predict the monthly energy bills and consumption;
• Annual CO2 discharge;
• Evaluate the life cycle payback on various options

Who Avail Advantage of Energy-modelling?

• Manufacturers (Product saves money in a given time)
• Engineers (Can avoid giant spreadsheets)
• Building tenants (Low monthly bills)
• Building owners (Get good returns)
• One can use the least energy and can preserve the environment.

How Do I Create Building Energy-model?

To simulate a building on a computer, there is a need for appropriate software. There are thousands of options available.

The software can be learned in a short period of time, but it will take years to be a master.

What are the Requirements of Energy Modelling?

• Building materials (windows, walls, u-values, shading coefficients);
• Building geometry and location;
• General functionality of the building;
• Zoning requirements;
• System types
• All interior load values (plug loads, lighting, activity level);
• Work smartly

Which Software Works Best?

Every software has its pros and cons. Some packages may be of good functionality while others may have a poor interface. Brilliant interfaces may have limited functionality. It also depends upon what you are performing. There are two major options like eQuest, and Trace 700 which can works best when you need energy plus load design.