Context and overview

According to the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, starting in 2050, all buildings must meet the standard of zero-emission buildings (ZEB). This ambitions target will require buildings to exhibit very high performances having all the energy consumed being produced from renewable sources and avoiding on-site carbon emissions from fossil fuels. To enhance the overall energy performance of the building stock, building energy systems simulation emerges as a primary tool to achieve these objectives. Consequently, it is essential to train and empower professionals with skills in building and energy systems modelling to assess buildings’ energy performance, including Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and renewable energy systems.
The purpose of this MC is to acquaint students with building energy simulation tools and illustrate their capabilities in designing, modelling, and sizing Heating, Cooling, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and renewable energy systems. This MC will provide guidance in defining multi-zone models, estimating thermal loads, and sizing HVAC and renewable energy systems. To reinforce these concepts, a building case study will be developed to practice and compare the energy performance of different HVAC solutions and of photovoltaic systems. At the end, students will be prepared to employ building simulation tools in the design of highly efficient buildings utilizing renewable energy systems.