Performance Modeling

Photo: Daderot. License: Public domain

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:

  • daylight simulation

  • hygrothermal modeling

  • thermal comfort modeling

  • 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

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