Architecture data and energy efficiency simulation: BIM and interoperability standards

Building Information Modelling (BIM) and energy simulation tools are increasingly used for the analysis of energy efficiency of buildings and comfort of their occupants. This paper starts with several definitions. Then, it presents a method to standardize the contents of 3D architectural models in existing and historical buildings aimed to obtaining an effective interoperable model to enable faster and reliable energy performance simulations during the building’s life-cycle and specifically its management stage. Given the significant variety of architectural modelling and energy simulation tools, it is crucial to understand limitations of the tools and the complexity of such simulations, considering at the same time their user-friendliness.