The U.S. Department of Energy and the National Labs have released updated versions of their open-source, whole-building energy modeling tools: the EnergyPlus engine and the OpenStudio software development kit and application.
EnergyPlus V8.7.0 includes the following enhancements:
- New features to support residential modeling including a new attic duct model and the Kiva ground heat exchange model.
- Support for non-rectangular windows.
- A new generalized fan model.
- Enhanced plant auto-sizing.
- Full support for variable speed DX coils.
- Regular expression support in output variables for easier report generation.
- A refactored output module for improved performance.
The release also includes resolutions and fixes to 50 known bugs and issues.
OpenStudio 2.1.0 has a new feature, a completely revamped Parametric Analysis Tool (PAT) application. The interface has been rewritten in JavaScript to leverage the browser-based Electron framework. The back end also uses the new OpenStudio 2.0 Server architecture, including OpenStudio Command Line Interface (CLI), OpenStudio Meta-CLI, and the new OpenStudio Workflow (OSW) and OpenStudio Analysis (OSA) file formats. The new PAT supports both local and cloud-based execution and adds support for “algorithmic” workflows like uncertainty quantification, design optimization, large-scale parametric analysis, and model input calibration that can automatically generate large numbers of runs. Use of the new file formats means that the new PAT is not compatible with PAT 1.X projects.
More information about all of DOE’s energy modeling software and research projects can be found at https://energy.gov/eere/build
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 19, 2017
Green building advocates erect icehouses on Penn. state capitol steps to make point on codes
State’s codes have not been updated since 2009.
Codes and Standards | Jun 15, 2017
Cornell Tech unveils plans to reach Net Zero at The Bloomberg Center
Campus plans include photovoltaic arrays and geothermal ground source heat pumps.
Codes and Standards | Jun 13, 2017
Canada Green Building Council and Green Business Certification Inc. announce partnership
New joint venture will deliver enhanced services and support tools and programs throughout Canada.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2017
Nail-Laminated Timber Design and Construction Guide released
New document focuses on design and construction considerations for horizontal NLT applications.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2017
Car sharing popularity means parking zoning and codes may be promoting overbuilding of garages
Some designers look to modular designs in anticipation of alternate uses.
Codes and Standards | Jun 7, 2017
IAPMO advances toward new 2017 Water Efficiency and Sanitation Standard
Revised pipe-sizing method for residential applications will be included.
Codes and Standards | Jun 7, 2017
New Colorado law could stimulate stalled condo market
Construction defect law modifications could ease litigation risk and cut insurance rates.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2017
New York City will require construction superintendents on buildings higher than three stories
New laws focus on construction safety.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
Industry Groups move toward Unified Green Building Model Code in 2018
The effort involves combining ASHRAE's Standard 189.1 with the International Green Construction Code.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
OSHA suspends electronic injury, illness reporting requirement
The agency is keeping records from being publicly disclosed—for now.
