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
| May 25, 2012
Las Vegas building codes may thwart innovative shipping container development
A developer wants to build a commercial development out of steel shipping containers in Las Vegas, but city codes would have to be altered or the project would have to obtain waivers for it to receive the city’s go-ahead.
| May 25, 2012
Collapse of Brooklyn building that killed worker blamed on improperly braced frame
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited SP&K Construction with 11 safety violations, for which it could face more than $77,000 in fines.
| May 25, 2012
Study: Safety inspections don’t hurt the bottom line
A new study suggests that random safety inspections by regulators help reduce injury claims without hurting profits.
| May 24, 2012
2012 Reconstruction Awards Entry Form
Download a PDF of the Entry Form at the bottom of this page.
| May 17, 2012
New standard for Structural Insulated Panels under development
ASTM International and NTA, Inc. are developing a new standard for Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) that would create a path for U.S. manufacturers to meet the requirements of the Canadian building code.
| May 17, 2012
Webinar: ‘What Energy Codes and Standards Are Adopted Where and by Whom’
A June 12 webinar by the Construction Specifications Institute will outline what energy codes and standards have been adopted in each of the states for commercial buildings, and what is anticipated to be adopted in the future.
| May 17, 2012
California Governor orders new green standards on state buildings
California Gov. Jerry Brown issued an executive order recently that calls for all new or renovated state buildings of more than 10,000 sf to achieve LEED Silver or higher and incorporate clean, onsite power generation.
| May 17, 2012
New Zealand stadium roof collapse blamed on snow, construction defects
Heavy snowfall, construction defects, and design problems contributed to the collapse of the Stadium Southland roof in New Zealand in September 2010, a report has found.
| May 17, 2012
OSHA launches fall prevention campaign
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently launched an educational campaign to prevent deadly falls in the construction industry.