Agenda

1. Introduction to Building Simulation

2. Types of Building Simulation
3. Whole Building Energy Simulation (WBES)
4. WBES - Inputs
5. WBES - Outputs
6. Demonstration of Modeling Software
7. Questions
Building Energy Simulation

Nanda Abeysekera
GreenSL AP, LEED AP
Greenpath Energy (Pvt) Ltd
www.greenpath-energy.com
Introduction to Building Simulation

• What is Computer Simulation?

Using a computer program to represent and model the
functioning of a particular object or system in order to be
able to optimize and improve performance
Introduction to Building Simulation

• What is Building Simulation?

Modeling certain aspects of a building on a computer -
ideally prior to construction - providing insights into the
building’s eventual performance and giving an
opportunity to optimize and improve that performance
Introduction to Building Simulation

• Why do Building Simulation?

- Improve Building Performance
- Make better use of Passive Techniques
- Perform cost-value analysis for building improvements,
and validate and demonstrate value to clients.
- A better understanding of the complex interactions
between all building elements.
- Avoid risks and liabilities on building performance
related issues.
- Comply with Green Building Certification Standards
Types of Building Simulation
1. Envelope Analysis (Insulation, Glazing, etc.)
Types of Building Simulation
2. CFD analysis of building air and heat flows
Types of Building Simulation
3. Lighting and Daylighting Analysis
Types of Building Simulation
4. Wind Load Simulation
Types of Building Simulation
5. Whole Building Energy Simulation
Whole Building Energy Simulation
A WBES software program utilizes a variety of inputs to
predict the future energy use of a prospective building
prior to design. All aspects of the building from geometry,
constructions, energy systems, schedules, local weather,
etc must be input into the energy model.

Several Options for Simulation Software:

1. eQuest
2. Autodesk Suite (Revit + Green Building Studio)
3. DesignBuilder
4. Sefaira (SketchUp)
Etc…
Whole Building Energy Simulation

Overall Best* WBES software:

eQuest, developed by the US
Department of Energy
* In my opinion, of course

PROS CONS

• Powerful Engine • Outdated Interface

• General Purpose
• Wizard Mode (Quick)
• Fast Simulation
• Widely Used
• Free
• No CAD Automation
• Inflexible
• Tracking Errors is Difficult
• No detailed rendering
Whole Building Energy Simulation
Modelling Cases:
• PROPOSED CASE MODEL: A proposed building, with all
geometry and energy systems modeled as designed
together with reasonable assumptions on usage, schedules,
and setpoints.
• BASELINE CASE MODEL: The proposed building modified to
meet a standard or code (e.g. ASHRAE 90.1). Envelope,
efficiencies, lighting, etc. are set by this standard)
• CALIBRATED MODEL: A model of an existing building set up
to match (as closely as possible) the actual energy
consumption of the building as shown by past utility bills
WBES – Required Inputs
2. Building Constructions and Material Properties
WBES – Required Inputs
1. Building Geometry, Orientation, and Zoning
WBES – Required Inputs
3. Loads and Schedules
WBES – Required Inputs
4. Energy Systems and Specifications
WBES – Required Inputs
5. Utility Rates
WBES – Required Inputs
6. Local Weather File
Simulate!
WBES – Simulation Outputs
1. Percentage Improvement

Percentage Improvement for the Proposed Case is based

on Energy Cost as follows:

Percentage = BASELINEEC – PROPOSEDEC X 100

Improvement BASELINEEC
WBES – Simulation Outputs
2. Predicted Energy Consumption
WBES – Simulation Outputs
3. Predicted Utility Bill Payments
WBES – Simulation Outputs
4. Detailed Simulation Output
Demonstration of Modeling Software