Paper Conference

Proceedings of SimBuild Conference 2012: 5th conference of IBPSA USA

     

Multi-Objective Optimization Model for Building Retrofit Strategies

Ehsan Asadi, Manuel Gameiro da Silva, Carlos Henggeler Antunes, Luís Dias
MIT-Portugal, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Portugal
ADAI – LAETA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Portugal
INESC Coimbra, 3000 Coimbra, Portugal
Department of Electrical Engineering and Computers, Polo II, University of Coimbra, 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Av. Dias da Silva, Coimbra, Portugal

Abstract: In face of the multiple choices for retrofitting a building, the main issue is to identify those that prove to be the most effective in the long term. In this work, a simulation-based multi-objective optimization scheme (a combination of TRNSYS, GenOpt and a Tchebycheff optimization technique developed in MATLAB) is employed to minimize energy use in the building in a cost effective manner, while considering the occupant's requirements. In order to achieve the best compromise solutions a wide decision space is considered, including alternative materials for external wall insulation, roof insulation, different window types, and installation of solar collector in the existing building. An existing house needing retrofit is taken as a case study and the effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated for identifying a number of Pareto optimal solutions for building retrofit. The results verify the practicability of the approach and highlight potential problems that may arise.
Pages: 17 - 24
Paper:
simbuild2012_01a_3_Asadi