Fourier-synthesized weather data for building energy use estimation

Abstract Fourier transforms are employed to simplify the description of weather data. Fine structure in Fourier transforms is related to heating requirements. Annual heating energy estimates for a standard building subjected to real and highly simplified weather data agree to within 10% for both locations tested. When fine-structure is considered, the simplified description is shown to be sufficiently realistic for many important applications, notably sketch design and monthly energy use estimation.