An integrated building/systems simulation approach to energy conservation

Starting from current energy-conscious building practice, additional energy savings can only be achieved when the building, HVAC system(s}, and occupants are approached as an integrated, dynamic system. Since this is not a trivial task, the design profession must be provided with tools which enable this. Some recent advances in the field of integrated, building/ plant design support tools are described. An overview of the adopted approach is given. The research conducted thus far and directions for future work are indicated. By means of case-study material, early application in a real building performance evaluation context is demonstrated