The U.S. Department of Energy and National Labs released updated versions of their open-source, whole-building energy modeling tools, the EnergyPlus engine and the OpenStudio Software Development Kit.
EnergyPlus 9.5.0 includes fixes for over 60 known issues and bugs. The release also includes new features including a new battery model, enhancements to heat-pump water heaters and energy recovery ventilators, new tabular reporting options, and additional actuators for EMS and the Python Plugin. Starting with this release, a single application can run multiple EnergyPlus simulations that will not interfere with one another.
OpenStudio 3.2.0 includes updates to the OpenStudio Application Programming Interface, Command Line Interface, Server, and Standards gem. New features include Python API bindings, EnergyPlus export in epJSON input format, and OpenStudio Server support for URBANopt simulations.
The OpenStudio Standards gem has been updated to include data for ASHRAE 90.1-2016 models. In addition, all ASHRAE Standard 90.1 data tables are exported into a separate repository that can used by tools other than OpenStudio.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 6, 2018
Coalition of mayors around the globe pledge net-zero buildings by 2030
New construction to produce as much energy as it consumes.
Codes and Standards | Sep 5, 2018
New White Paper on Metal Panel Fire Safety Released
Has detailed information for insulation, fire safety requirements in U.S., other countries.
Codes and Standards | Aug 31, 2018
Trade war could make adaptive reuse more attractive
Higher cost of building materials could make rehab a better financial bet.
Codes and Standards | Aug 30, 2018
Metrics should guide strategy for schools seeking LEED certification
Assessing current status helps direct where improvements can have greatest impact.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2018
The 2018 IAPMO solar and swimming pool codes now available
For installation and inspection of public and private swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 28, 2018
New York’s green roof program needs reform
Despite incentives, few owners add vegetative roofs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 24, 2018
Resilience, sustainability emphasized in plans for new 23,000-acre city in the Philippines
“A backup for when Manila fails.”
Codes and Standards | Aug 23, 2018
Cities promote deconstruction of old homes with mixed results
Market factors complicate efforts to recycle material from old structures.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2018
Oregon is first state to change building code to allow tall mass timber buildings
Statewide alternate method allows early technical consideration and approval.
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2018
First mass timber panel made from structural composite lumber gets APA certification
Said to be much more cost effective than CLT options.