Using Simulation Models for Building Commissioning

Abstract

The International Energy Agency ECBCS Annex 40 “Commissioning of Buildings and HVAC Systems for Improved Energy Performance” task investigating Use of Whole Building Simulation in Commissioning has identified the following applications of whole simulation in the commissioning process: 1) during the design process; 2) in post-construction commissioning of new buildings; 3) design simulation for ongoing commissioning; 4) calibrated simulation for retro commissioning; 5) calibrated simulation for on-going commissioning; and 6) simulation to evaluate new control code. These applications are discussed and examples of each of these applications are provided. The only one of these which has been applied in routine commissioning projects is the use of calibrated simulation for retro commissioning. The other examples have been applied in a research setting, and costs must be lowered for routine application, but there appears to be potential for significant application of simulation in the commissioning process.