Development and calibration of apartment building energy model based on architectural and energy consumption characteristics

• Published in: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews 2024-12, Vol.206, p.114874, Article 114874
• Main Authors: Lee, Ruda, Kim, Dongsu, Yoon, Jongho, Kang, Eunho, Cho, Heejin, Kim, Jinhwi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Apartment; Building energy modeling; Data collection; Energy consumption; Model calibration; ZEB (Zero Energy Building)
• ISSN: 1364-0321
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2024.114874

Building energy modeling is pivotal in achieving sustainable energy goals throughout a building's design and operation. However, discrepancies often arise between actual energy consumption and predictions made by building energy models due to uncertainties in input parameters. This study addresses this challenge by calibrating building energy modeling with empirical data, focusing on apartment buildings in South Korea. Specifically, it targets public and lease apartments, which is crucial in attaining Zero Energy Building (ZEB) ratings. This study develops an apartment building model based on architectural design and energy use patterns, employing the whole building energy simulation tool, EnergyPlus. Key calibration elements were identified through systematic literature reviews, statistical analysis, architectural drawings, and monitoring data. The calibrated model achieved a prediction error of 2.7 % and a CV(RMSE) of 9.4 %, closely mirroring actual measurements. This was particularly influenced by using realistic occupancy schedules instead of generic ones. The results provide valuable insights for refining the residential building energy modeling process, especially in the context of ZEB goals. The study underscores the importance of accurate data collection and model calibration in bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world energy consumption. [Display omitted] •This study investigates the energy consumption patterns in high-rise apartments in South Korea.•Comprehensive review and collection of energy and architectural characteristics were performed.•A benchmarking model for high-rise apartment buildings was developed and calibrated.•A detailed calibration and validation process was conducted, utilizing collected field data.