Apr 25, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Academic Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Graduate Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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ARE 6431 - Building Energy Simulations

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits
Course Description
This course focuses on elements of building energy simulations. An introduction and study of building energy assessment principles and protocols for new and existing commercial buildings.  Course topics include hands-on techniques of energy measurement and verification, indoor environmental quality parameter identification and measurement, and energy metric comparison/analysis for the application and submission of a building disclosure, rating, and labeling program. The course will also focus on energy modeling to inform and guide design of a new commercial building. (prereq: ARE 5451 ) (quarter system prereq: ARE 3422)
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Discuss and illustrate potential Energy Efficiency Measures (EEM) including financial payback analysis
  • Evaluate the impact of climate zones on energy use and different building types
  • Analyze raw energy consumption data from measured-meter readings
  • Explain energy metrics and how they are developed
  • Explain the process of certifying professionals in energy assessment
  • Calculate an ASHRAE bEQ In Operation rating for a building
  • Develop a bEQ In Operation workbook to apply for a bEQ Certificate and Dashboard
  • Develop a building energy model for a commercial building
  • Explain how building envelope construction affects building energy consumption
  • Justify system selection procedures to a building based on energy use goals
  • Evaluate energy cost budgets and performance ratings using ASHRAE 90.1

Prerequisites by Topic
  • Basic use of energy modeling software

Course Topics
  • Building benchmarking and labeling
  • Building energy use and management
  • Energy calculations and targets
  • ASHRAE bEQ program
  • US EPA Energy Star program
  • Commercial Building Energy Consumption Survey
  • Preliminary energy use analysis
  • Analyzing energy costs, bills, and rate structures
  • Developing energy targets and requirements
  • Calculations of energy consumption and paybacks
  • Level 1, 2, and 3 energy audits
  • Equipment life cycle and life expectancy
  • Identifying opportunities for energy conservation
  • Energy efficiency measures
  • Indoor environmental quality survey
  • Building controls and energy management
  • Completing and submitting a bEQ project
  • Energy estimating and modeling methods
  • Energy modeling using software programs
  • High-performance buildings
  • Energy code analysis and compliance
  • System selection process
  • Modeling as part of the design efforts
  • Energy modeling for existing buildings
  • Comparison of approaches to energy modeling

Coordinator
David Grassl, P.E.



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