Building simulation calibration using sensitivity analysis

This paper presents first steps of a methodology for calibration of building simulation models through definition of the parameters that most affect the main electric end-uses of a building. The first step consists on a good definition of constant loads (plug loads, lighting and occupation) and its schedules. The next steps are directed to calibrate the envelope variables. Sensitivity analysis is applied over the estimated cooling and heating loads in order to specify more accurate values for those inputs that present great impact on the total thermal load. The methodology is proposed to minimize the long time spent in the calibration procedure during a building simulation task. A case study is presented where the annual electricity consumption predicted by EnergyPlus simulation was only 1% lower than actual value. The calibration was obtained after four iterations over the base case model. The building under analysis is a public office one with 26,274 m² of area and annual electric consumption of 4,462 MWh (172 kWh/m².year).