The U.S Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. National Labs released updated versions of open-source whole-building energy modeling tools: the EnergyPlus engine and the OpenStudio software development kit (SDK) and application.
EnergyPlus 8.9.0 includes the ability to accept input in a JSON (Java Script Object Notation) format called epJSON. epJSON is derived from the existing IDF format and shares its object structure.
The JSON key-value structure supports schema validation as well as faster object and field lookups, and should make EnergyPlus schema evolution (e.g., the addition and deprecation of fields) simpler, DOE says.
EnergyPlus 8.9.0 includes:
- An On/Off thermostat model
- An option to disable “self-shading” effects
- The ability to import shading schedules for a file
- PVWatts calculations for estimating photovoltaic electricity production
- A data driven model for hybrid air conditioners
- Enhancements to data center modeling
- New sizing and annual reporting options
EnergyPlus is available at http://energyplus.net/.
An upgraded version of OpenStudio 2.5.0, with new features is available at http://openstudio.net/. A key new feature in this release is support for EnergyPlus EMS (Energy Management System) sensors and actuators.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2019
Policymakers need to act to alleviate affordable housing crunch
Moody’s economist says costs including mortgage rates worsening situation.
Codes and Standards | Jan 8, 2019
Pittsburgh launches task force on construction industry fraud
Focus will be on wage violations.
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2019
Program uses low-cost sensors to monitor impact of stormwater mitigation systems
University/municipal partnership in Philadelphia aims to improve green infrastructure design.
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2019
Washington, D.C., to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2032
Includes measures to reduce emissions from buildings and transportation.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2019
Canada’s National Building Code will include climate change obligations
New durability requirements for new buildings in the works.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2019
LEED v4.1 beta registration begins in January
First releases are O+M, BD+C, and ID+C.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2019
U.S. Appeals Court says general contractors can be cited for subcontractor violations
Ruling will prompt review of OSH decision that said GCs cannot be held liable for subs’ violations.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2019
Tall mass timber code changes receive final approval
New provisions to be included in the 2021 International Building Code.
Codes and Standards | Jan 2, 2019
ASHRAE’s Low-Rise Residential Buildings standard update now available
Performance measures are at least 50% more efficient than 2006 IECC.
Codes and Standards | Jan 2, 2019
Study compares labor hours for various low-slope roofing options
Type of roof covering, project parameters, tool management, and crew efficiency all impact profitability.