Paper Conference

ASHRAE & IBPSA-USA SimBuild 2016: Building Performance Modeling Conference

     

Data Visualization for Net Zero Site Energy Design Using Solar Panels for Electricity and Hot-Water Heating Systems with Financial Incentives

Marionyt Tyrone Marshall
Perkins+Will, Atlanta, GA, USA

Abstract: The paper discusses the use of a script to present an informative web-based platform as a design process for achieving net zero site energy projects. The script can collect, connect, and integrate data from utilities, solar panels for electricity and hot-water heating systems with financial incentives. Technical information can provide solutions for understanding the design, performance, and cost of renewable-energy, but generally do not engage or inspire experimentation. Dense data and calculation methods provide results but can require more work to prepare, layout, and integrate the information for quick access. The use of publicly available application interfaces, scripts, and interactive on-line graphics provides an easy to understand visual method for photovoltaic design. The work uses computational algorithms that calculate solar array size, payback period, and installation cost based on simple building design parameters. Designers, engineers, and researchers may use this process for achieving net zero site energy design and the sizing of a solar panel system. The results can be useful for design performance modeling. The technical information and simple graphics can improve awareness about the use of solar panels for electricity and water heating systems. Graphical information, rapid feedback and convenient display can remove the need to prepare data by a designer, engineer, developer or a researcher. The work promotes an active experience for anyone to participate in the development of achieving net zero site energy projects.
Pages: 343 - 350
Paper:
simbuild2016_C045