Examining the Relationship Between Design Features and the Actual Performance of Buildings Designed and Constructed Under Energy Efficiency Standards

Research indicates that there is a gap between computer predicted energy performance of buildings at the design stage and the actual performance, post-construction, in the use stage. As a result, the intended performance of the building is not met.

How big is the gap between simulated energy performance and the real-time performance of buildings? What are the causes for this gap in performance between predictions and actual performance? Are design features related to actual performance and, if so, how are they related?

OBJECTIVES: (1) Quantify the performance gap. (2) Identify the causes of the performance gap. (3) Examine the relationship between the design features and actual energy utility data. (4) Propose utility data-based design guidelines.