Tools for sustainable development: a comparison of building performance simulation packages

The paper evaluates the energy performance of a test case (a single family home) using three different simulation software packages – REM Design, Energy Gauge and Treat. It will discuss the results of each simulation run and the reasons for variations in the results. The inputs for each of the three different simulation tools are heating, cooling, and water heating loads, building shell (exterior walls, roof, foundation, windows, doors) features, air leakage and electric consumption (lighting and appliances). The paper will also highlight the differences in data input for all three software and will underscore areas where improvements to the capabilities offered by the tools and the entities used to define simulation models can be made. Keywords: energy, performance, building, simulation, costs, efficiency