Abstract

Several simulation tools are available to evaluate the energy performance of buildings. EnergyPlus, a state-of-the-art building energy analysis program that features the best capabilities of DOE and BLAST programs, was first released in 2001. Several researchers have compared and evaluated particular features of the program in specific context. However, only a limited amount of information, related to the simulation of large buildings, has been published so far. This thesis presents the development of a virtual model of an academic building using the EnergyPlus program. The Concordia Sciences building, located in Montréal, has a total floor area of 32,000 m 2 . The building consists mainly of research and academic labs. The size and the complexity of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and heat recovery systems make the modeling process a challenge and an excellent way to evaluate the capabilities and features of EnergyPlus. This thesis presents the approach taken to develop the computer model, the analysis of measured data, the approach taken to calibrate the model, the results of calibration as well as comments about problems encountered throughout the process. Information about the as-built and as operated thermal performance of the Sciences building is obtained from the Monitoring and Data Acquisition System through the collaboration of the Physical Plant of Concordia University. The model is calibrated over the spring season, from March 20 th to June 20 th . The comparison is performed between measured and simulated supply airflow rates and supply and return set point temperatures. A sensitivity analysis of the computer model is presented to assess the impact of some selected parameters on the calibrated model. The annual demand and consumption are also evaluated using the calibrated model