Evaluation of calibration efficacy under different levels of uncertainty

This paper examines how calibration performs under different levels of uncertainty in model input data. It specifically assesses the efficacy of Bayesian calibration to enhance the reliability of EnergyPlus models. A Bayesian approach can quantify uncertainty in uncertain parameters while updating their values given measurement data. We assess the efficacy of Bayesian calibration under a controlled virtual-reality setup, which enables researchers to rigorously validate the accuracy of calibration results in terms of both calibration parameter values and calibrated model predictions. Case studies demonstrate the performance of Bayesian calibration of base models developed from audit data with differing levels of detail in building design, usage and operation.