The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a new version of its EnergyPlus software that simulates and analyzes a building’s energy use. EnergyPlus models a building’s heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation, water, and other energy flows, allowing designers and engineers to test different system combinations before construction begins.
Version 3.0, which is available for Windows, Linux, and Macintosh operating systems, includes several new features such as new datasets, input syntax changes, updated zone and ventilation controls and models, enhanced cost calculations and economic reporting, and extended documentation and guides.
For users interested in retrofitting, DOE has updated and extended the software’s capabilities for modeling existing building envelope, daylighting, and HVAC equipment and systems.
Visit the EnergyPlus Web site to learn more about the new features or to download EnergyPlus Version 3.0 at no cost.
