Promising (and not so promising) developments in energy analysis software

Building energy analysis programs have undergone a slow evolution since arrival over a decade ago. The frequency of use and number of applications for these sophisticated modeling tools seems to have reached a plateau. Changes are underway that may result in renewed vigor in the field. This paper reviews some of the dominant energy analysis issues. Recent thrust areas are examined for the alternative futures they suggest. Lastly, a role is defined for the International Building Performance Simulation Association, which may help guide energy analysis to the most promising of these futures.