Testing the sensitivity of user patterns in building energy performance simulation

Abstract

In this study, the sensitivity of occupancy behaviour on building energy simulation is investigated. Given the changing nature of the office environment as well as advances in technology, standardised user patterns may have become out dated. This research investigates the importance of reliable occupancy patterns by simulating a representative office building in the Adelaide CBD, varying the hours of use, thermostat settings, lighting use and ancillary appliances, which are all largely user dependant, and comparing the results against variations in the building envelope. This in turn helps demonstrate the importance of Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) as an energy conservation measure.