Integrating building energy simulation in the design process

To significantly increase building energy performance, the use of building simulation software at the earliest has been emphasized. Inherent complexity in data representation, I/O (Input and Output) and Visualization of available software requires specialist knowledge to leverage the potentials offered. Early stages of design are characterized by unstructured and incomplete data which is insufficient as inputs to software based on detailed representations of the systems in the building. Existing simulation software, developed in research organizations are targeted to be used by building services engineers at detailed stages and does not suit the purposes of design community. This article attempts at identifying the reasons behind unpopularity of simulation software in the early stages of design and also argues that a new breed of decision support systems is needed for energy efficient building design