New versions of the EnergyPlus engine and the OpenStudio software development kit have been released by the U.S. Department of Energy and national labs.
EnergyPlus 8.8.0 includes the following enhancements:
- New features to support the use of EnergyPlus in urban-scale modeling applications
- Updated summary report tables for recent versions of LEED
- Support for multiple air systems serving a single zone
- An enhanced model for phase change materials
- Integration of Berkeley Lab’s WinCalc engine
OpenStudio 2.3.0’s main new feature is a new, open-source cross-platform 2D floor-plan editor. The editor supports story-by-story floor plan definition and extrusion; placement of doors, windows, and shading devices; and association of surfaces with constructions and spaces with space types and zones.
More information about all of DOE’s energy modeling software and research projects can be found at http://energy.gov/eere/buildin
Related Stories
School Construction | May 3, 2016
Florida clamps down on school construction spending
Critics fear rules will hamper ability to build schools with desired features.
Resiliency | May 2, 2016
Connecticut to develop new code standards for resiliency
Expected more frequent severe weather events due to climate change prompts review.
Contractors | Apr 29, 2016
OSHA issues advisory to protect workers from Zika virus
Construction industry workers considered at high risk.
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2016
New research finds 30 measures to significantly cut energy use
ASHRAE’s prescription cuts across all building types and climates.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2016
Florida gives developers more time to install first responder radio signal systems
Expensive upgrades can be postponed for several years.
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
San Francisco becomes first big U.S. city to require solar panels on new buildings
Pertains to commercial and residential buildings shorter than 10 stories.
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
GSA adopts SITES land development and management rating system
Federal agency will use for properties with and without buildings.
Wood | Apr 22, 2016
Revised 2015 Manual for Engineered Wood Construction available
American Wood Council Document offers design information for structural applications.
Codes and Standards | Apr 20, 2016
OSHA updates eye and face protection standards in final rule
Becomes effective April 26.
Codes and Standards | Apr 18, 2016
Efficiency finance pilot project to spur retrofits on existing buildings
EDF and PG&E team up on interest-free loans for qualified projects.
