A systematic approach to manual calibration and validation of building energy simulation

Gökçe Tomrukçu, Hazal Kızıldağ, Gizem Avgan, Ayşe Özlem Dal, Neşe Ganiç Sağlam, Ece Kalaycıoğlu Özdemir, Touraj Ashrafian*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Purpose
This study aims to create an efficient approach to validate building energy simulation models amidst challenges from time-intensive data collection. Emphasizing precision in model calibration through strategic short-term data acquisition, the systematic framework targets critical adjustments using a strategically captured dataset. Leveraging metrics like Mean Bias Error (MBE) and Coefficient of Variation of Root Mean Square Error (CV(RMSE)), this methodology aims to heighten energy efficiency assessment accuracy without lengthy data collection periods.

Design/methodology/approach
A standalone school and a campus facility were selected as case studies. Field investigations enabled precise energy modeling, emphasizing user-dependent parameters and compliance with standards. Simulation outputs were compared to short-term actual measurements, utilizing MBE and CV(RMSE) metrics, focusing on internal temperature and CO2 levels. Energy bills and consumption data were scrutinized to verify natural gas and electricity usage against uncertain parameters.

Findings
Discrepancies between initial simulations and measurements were observed. Following adjustments, the standalone school 1’s average internal temperature increased from 19.5 °C to 21.3 °C, with MBE and CV(RMSE) aiding validation. Campus facilities exhibited complex variations, addressed by accounting for CO2 levels and occupancy patterns, with similar metrics aiding validation. Revisions in lighting and electrical equipment schedules improved electricity consumption predictions. Verification of natural gas usage and monthly error rate calculations refined the simulation model.

Originality/value
This paper tackles Building Energy Simulation validation challenges due to data scarcity and time constraints. It proposes a strategic, short-term data collection method. It uses MBE and CV(RMSE) metrics for a comprehensive evaluation to ensure reliable energy efficiency predictions without extensive data collection.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-28
Number of pages28
JournalSmart and Sustainable Built Environment
Early online date5 Jun 2024
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 5 Jun 2024

Keywords

  • Building energy simulation
  • validation
  • school building
  • CV(RMSE)
  • MBE
  • energy consumption

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