Sensitivity analysis of building energy performance: A simulation-based approach using OFAT and variance-based sensitivity analysis methods

In this research, one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) and variance-based sensitivity analysis methods integrate with EnergyPlus through MATLAB to define predominant variables affecting the energy efficiency of buildings in the early phase of building design. To explore the capabilities of the developed method, it is tested on a typical room model; and the impacts of the design variables, including building orientation, window size, overhang system, and the glazing and walls specifications on the building energy demands are studied in four main weather conditions of Iran. The local and global sensitivity analysis of the annual cooling, heating, lighting and total building electricity are carried out. The results show that for our typical case study, the window size is the prevailing parameter on the annual cooling, heating and total building energy electricity while the glazing visible transmittance has the greatest influence on the annual lighting one in all weather conditions. The developed simulation-based sensitivity analysis method demonstrates a useful tool that aids building energy engineers and decision-makers to concentrate on the most important parameters in the initial stages of planning and promote the building energy efficiency.