Conference Paper

Proceedings of eSim 2018: 10th Conference of IBPSA-Canada

An Approach Towards Achieving Net-Zero Energy Buildings Based on a Stochastic Tenant Model

Aly A. Abdelalim, William O’Brien

Abstract: During the simulation-aided net-zero energy building design process, there are uncertainties related to occupancy schedules, occupant behavior, and the corresponding effect on thermal and electrical loads in buildings. As a result, designers’ assumptions about occupant-related energy use may have a significant impact on equipment sizing and associated capital cost. This paper examines the potential of using stochastic tenant models (occupancy, lighting, and plug loads) in order to understand the relationship between uncertainty from occupants’ behavior and photovoltaic (PV) system sizing to achieve NZE. Using the medium Canadian office reference building model as a case study, it was found that uncertainty of occupants for sizing PV is very expensive if the objective is to be highly confident that the building will achieve NZE. The results revealed that each incremental percentage point of certainty becomes increasingly expensive as we increase the confidence that PV is adequately sized to achieve NZE.
Keywords: net-zero energy, occupant behavior, stochastic occupant modelling, photovoltaic system sizing 1.
Pages: 341 - 350
Paper: