This report is focused on the selection of the most suitable tool for use in the context of ePANACEA energy assessment Method 3, based on advanced dynamic simulation. The development of Method 3 of the ePANACEA methodology requires a simulation tool with some specific capabilities such as: (1) Open source, (2) free of charge, (3) HVAC system modelling and sizing, (4) Load Calculation, (5) lighting system modelling, (6) Airflow simulations and (7) Modularity. This report aims to determine the tool that best suits these needs. For this purpose, research on the different BEM tools available in the current market has been carried out, analysing how well each of them meets all the features required.
With the findings obtained, a decision matrix has been elaborated. In this matrix, each capability is weighted according to its repercussions on the development of Method 3. Not all the evaluated capabilities have the same influence on the project’s development; for example, the use of an open-source tool is more important than the fact that its development is modular.
The results of the matrix show that the most suitable tool for the development of Method 3 is EnergyPlus. EnergyPlus is an internationally recognised calculation engine used by many other simulation tools. This tool meets all the requirements indicated above for the tool that will be the basis for the development of Method 3 within the ePANACEA energy assessment methodology.
EnergyPlus, in combination with OpenStudio (also an open source and free of charge tool), allows meeting other relevant requirements for the development of the ePANACEA project, such as the ease of modelling complex geometries, the ability to perform a high-level supervisory control for building systems, the ease of programming energy measures, the availability of a Building Component Library (BCL) or the ability to perform parametric analysis.
While the calculation tool is important, it is also important that it complies with the requirements set out in the current EPBD. Based on what the EPBD dictates, EnergyPlus shall comply with ISO 52000-1, ISO 52003-1, ISO 52010-1, ISO 52016-1 and ISO 52018-1 of the ISO 52xxx series. Of these standards, only ISO 52016 relates to the energy assessment of buildings and their calculations, and compliance with all other standards is limited to the completion of Annex 1 of each standard with the specifications selected for the EPC.