ABSTRACT
Building energy simulation is performed using a computer to virtually represent a building design and perform physics-based calculations. This chapter starts with the introduction of various components and requirements for simulation, and then gradually progresses to the concept of simulation using a ready example file. It establishes the impact of key simulation inputs such as lighting power density (LPD), activity, setpoint, window-to-wall ratio (WWR), orientation and fresh air intake on energy consumption. The chapter provides basic tutorials on creating simple geometry, analysing the impact of building orientation, WWR, internal loads and fresh air delivery with a special focus on analysing building energy performance and system sizing. There are many energy simulation tools available. Most simulation tools are capable of simulating the energy flows through different building components on an hourly basis, including the transient effects of the envelope and systems. The chapter also explains key input parameters, output visualization, and overall simulation process.
