Using dynamic simulation for demonstrating the impact of energy consumption by retrofit and behavioural change

In this paper, dynamic simulation software (in this case, DesignBuilder) has been used to model and to simulate a typical 1960s UK social housing in order to examine the impact of retrofit, occupant behaviour and user lifestyle on energy pattern. In terms of retrofitting study, various energy efficiency measurements have been considered such as improving level of insulations and heating system’s efficiency. For the occupant behaviour influence study, three types of heating control patterns have been created such as ‘Constant On’, ‘NCM’ and ‘Programmed Heating Control’. For the life style influence study, two different user patterns have been defined such as fulltime working and retired couple user groups. Results and findings of the study are further presented within the paper.