Performance Modeling
Thanks in part to green building programs like LEED, whole-building energy simulation has become more common. However, it’s not always doing its job.
When modeling is only used late in design, the modeling might have little value beyond keeping score. When using an iterative process of modeling early in design, results of modeling become feedback not only for the current project but also for future projects and design approaches.
Performance modeling is about more than energy. Other kinds of modeling commonly used for high-performing buildings include:
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daylight simulation
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hygrothermal modeling
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thermal comfort modeling
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climate modeling
There is no substitute, though, for understanding how your building works. These resources can help you learn how to integrate modeling strategies into your other processes.
Performance Modeling
Deep Dives
Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.
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Go with the Flows: The Promise and Peril of Hygrothermal Modeling
Feature Article
Tools modeling heat and moisture flows in building envelopes, such as WUFI, offer vital information for architects and engineers-but their misuse can do harm.
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Designing for the Next Century's Weather
Feature Article
How do you create a climate-responsive building in a changing climate? Brand new modeling techniques are helping us figure it out.
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Energy Modeling: Early and Often
Feature Article
For the biggest energy and cost savings, model early in design and model often, say the experts.
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Doing Daylighting Right
Feature Article
Harvesting daylight is a popular way to save energy and promote productivity. But getting it wrong is all too easy-and can have the opposite effects.
Quick Takes
Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.
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Using WUFI to Prevent Moisture Problems
Primer
WUFI software helps predict and prevent moisture problems based on site, climate, building materials, mechanical systems, and more.
Product Guidance
Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.
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Choosing the Right Hygrothermal Modeling Tool
Product Review
From the free hygIRC software to an expanding suite of WUFI applications, the hygrothermal modeling world has many options to offer.
In The News
We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.
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True District-Scale Energy Modeling Is on Its Way
News Brief
If you thought doing an energy model on one building was hard, try a whole district. But NREL is going to make it easier.
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Energy Modeling the ASHRAE 209 Way: Throughout Design and Beyond
News Brief
ASHRAE 209 guides users through design-phase energy modeling.
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What’s the Secret to High Performance?
News Analysis
A new report identifies common habits of the firms that produce the best-designed and most sustainable projects.
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Four Reasons Building Performance Is Worse Than Predicted
News Brief
It’s common for energy use to far exceed what models predict. Should outcome-based measures be the new standard?
Learning Resources
A wide range of education options, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.
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Dream Materials: What Do You Really Want to Build With?
Webcast
Innovations in product manufacturing are creating new options for designers at an ever-increasing pace. But are the new products and materials what we really want? Can we trust their claims?
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Shoebox Energy Modeling: How to Do Quick, Early Simulations
Webcast
Most whole building energy simulations require a mechanical system design, making them unsuitable for early-design modeling. In response, architects and energy modelers are turning to shoebox models, with one or just a few zones.
Not doing energy modeling yourself? This webcast will familiarize you with concepts that will help you get more out of your energy modeler, whether it is someone on your staff, or an outside consultant.
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Designing Natural Ventilation: Will the Breeze Follow Your Pointy Arrows?
Webcast
While airflow analysis isn't part of most building simulations today, it is part of nearly all low-energy buildings. Unfortunately, many architects aren't well-positioned to take advantage of this opportunity because they aren't trained to set up or interpret most airflow models. This webcast will introduce you to new software that enables you to engage more fully with airflow investigations required to validate design strategies.
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In-House Daylight Modeling: Three Firms Share How They Do It
Webcast
Getting consistent results when your artistic medium is the sun and sky can be one of the best design tricks to have up your sleeve—but it's also one of the most difficult to pull off. Is that window bringing in daylight or causing intolerable glare? Do you really know? The three panelists will show how they have used simulation to determine the difference, with overviews of daylighting, glare, and several case studies.
