Tomrukcu, G; Kizildag, H; Avgan, G; Dal, O; Ganic Saglam, N; Ozdemir, E and Ashrafian, T (2026) A systematic approach to manual calibration and validation of building energy simulation. Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, 15(1), pp. 203-230. ISSN 2046-6099
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to create an efficient approach to validate building energy simulation models amidst challenges from time-intensive data collection. Emphasizing precision in model calibration through strategic short-term data acquisition, the systematic framework targets critical adjustments using a strategically captured dataset. Leveraging metrics like Mean Bias Error (MBE) and Coefficient of Variation of Root Mean Square Error (CV(RMSE)), this methodology aims to heighten energy efficiency assessment accuracy without lengthy data collection periods. Design/methodology/approach – A standalone school and a campus facility were selected as case studies. Field investigations enabled precise energy modeling, emphasizing user-dependent parameters and compliance with standards. Simulation outputs were compared to short-term actual measurements, utilizing MBE and CV(RMSE) metrics, focusing on internal temperature and CO2 levels. Energy bills and consumption data were scrutinized to verify natural gas and electricity usage against uncertain parameters. Findings – Discrepancies between initial simulations and measurements were observed. Following adjustments, the standalone school 1's average internal temperature increased from 19.5 °C to 21.3 °C, with MBE and CV(RMSE) aiding validation. Campus facilities exhibited complex variations, addressed by accounting for CO2 levels and occupancy patterns, with similar metrics aiding validation. Revisions in lighting and electrical equipment schedules improved electricity consumption predictions. Verification of natural gas usage and monthly error rate calculations refined the simulation model. Originality/value – This paper tackles Building Energy Simulation validation challenges due to data scarcity and time constraints. It proposes a strategic, short-term data collection method. It uses MBE and CV(RMSE) metrics for a comprehensive evaluation to ensure reliable energy efficiency predictions without extensive data collection.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | building energy simulation; cv; energy consumption; MBE; school building; validation |
| Index terms: | data acquisition, electricity consumption, investigation, building energy simulation, energy consumption, case study, energy efficiency, accounting, consumption, mean square error, dataset, validation, variation, bias, methodology, school building, accuracy, compliance, energy modelling |
| Subjects: | contractual condition, professional development, probability and distributions, data management, data collection methods, sustainability and energy, energy systems, research methods, health safety and environment, construction type, consumer economics, economic analysis |
| Topics: | Business Strategy, Information Management, Research Practice, Stakeholder Management, Construction Technology, Digital Applications, Contract Administration, Health and Safety, Engineering Principles, Sustainability |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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