Modular HVAC Simulation and the Future Integration of Alternative Cooling Systems in

The interest in both modular simulation and alternative cooling systems continues to rise both in the United States and in other countries, particularly those nations where concerns for climate and the global environment are high. Modular simulations allow program users to test out configurations that are different from the standard systems and may sometimes lead to innovative design solutions. At the same time, the U.S. Department of Energy has released its new building energy simulation program, EnergyPlus. Its integration of a modular HVAC simulation within the framework of a comprehensive building thermal simulation has resulted in a program with significant initial capabilities and flexibility. This relative flex-ibility in comparison with its parent programs and the feedback from the integrated building, system, and plant simulation modules allows users to investigate the use of nonstandar