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 11, 2021
Zero Energy Buildings growth driven by government policy, stringent codes, technologies
Restraints include high upfront cost, and lack of universal definition and approaches.
Codes and Standards | Jan 11, 2021
HUD releases new Fair Housing Act design and construction requirements
First update of ‘safe harbors’ in 15 years provides better clarity for design and construction firms.
Codes and Standards | Jan 8, 2021
Court ruling gives UpCodes upper hand in fight over building codes database
Battle over IP property claims by ICC and other codes bodies continues.
Codes and Standards | Jan 8, 2021
Houston creates tax incentives for green stormwater elements
Businesses that install green roofs, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and rainwater harvesting are eligible.
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2021
Trump’s classical design aesthetic mandate for federal buildings likely to be felt for years
May limit the number of firms that could compete for contracts.
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2021
Workers on some of Virginia’s major construction projects sue subcontractors for wage theft
Projects include new General Assembly Building, outpatient facility at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
EPA finalizes first major update to Lead and Copper rule
Will accelerate pace of lead service line replacement.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
Flood risk for affordable housing expected to triple by 2050
Some communities will have 90% of their affordable housing at risk.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2021
Ranks of remote workers expected to double in five years
Nearly 23% of employees will work from outside of offices.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
CSI and ASTM standards can now be connected through a central location
CROSSWALK web service accesses standards specific to projects from feasibility to turnover.