Using suite energy-use and interior condition data to improve energy modeling of a 1960s MURB

• An energy model for a MURB was developed and calibrated using utility bill data.
• One year of data were collected from a MURB and used to recalibrate the model.
• Suite temperature and electricity use data were the most useful parameters collected.

Energy modeling is a useful tool for evaluating the performance of contemplated building energy retrofit measures. Traditionally, energy models are developed using data collected from building floor plans and site visits and are then calibrated using utility bills. In the work presented here, an energy model for an existing multi-unit residential building (MURB) was developed using this traditional approach. Next, a refined approach was taken. Using data gathered from a suite-based monitoring program, input data uncertainties in the energy model were addressed. Data from one year of monitoring were assembled to characterize the actual building performance and to calibrate this refined energy model. In order to identify which parameters could be used to improve the model accuracy, the output of this refined model was compared to the output from the traditional modeling approach. It was found that the interior temperature measurements and the sub-metered suite electricity use were the most beneficial in refining the energy model. However, other data collected including window operation and differential air pressures were useful for determining how the building was operating. The use of a local weather file generated from a roof-top weather station has also been discussed.