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 | Dec 16, 2021
Laws and regulations complicate growth of community solar gardens
New projects stymied by utility resistance and legislative restrictions.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Property owners need systematic approach to GHG emissions reduction
Energy hog buildings at risk for becoming stranded assets.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2021
Design problems now the primary cause of construction claims and disputes
More likely to occur due to more tight timescales imposed upon third parties engaged in design.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2021
ABC releases guide to technology for improving safety performance
Provides details on how to identify, choose, and implement technology.
Codes and Standards | Dec 8, 2021
Construction industry is the top target for cyberattacks
Smart building tech is a new avenue for criminals.
Codes and Standards | Dec 8, 2021
Proposals to add more multifamily to Atlanta prompt drive for Buckhead to secede
City aims to increase housing as projections point to sharp population increase.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2021
Design problems now the primary cause of construction claims and disputes
More likely to occur due to more tight timescales imposed upon third parties engaged in design.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2021
New standard for Phase I environmental reports requires more research work on many sites
Update affects around 250,000 commercial real estate transactions a year.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2021
Dept. of Energy publishes RFP for technical assistance on supporting better building codes
Addresses advanced standards to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions.
Codes and Standards | Nov 29, 2021
Ithaca, N.Y., votes to electrify, decarbonize all its buildings
First initiative of its kind in U.S.