EnergyPlus Energy Simulation Software

Living in an area like Duluth, Minnesota, a high fluctuation in the temperature year round is a concern for newly constructed buildings and existing structures. Figure 1 below shows the average temperature throughout the year from the years 1971 to 2000, which indicates that there is approximately 75 degrees Fahrenheit difference between the temperatures in January and the temperatures in July. With this kind of temperature fluctuation, it is important to build structures that have more energy efficient systems for heating and cooling. Numerical simulations of the energy dissipated in a building can be accomplished with the aid of the EnergyPlus Energy Simulation Software. EnergyPlus is a free software program provided by the Department of Energy that simulates thermal loading and analyzes energy usage. There are many older houses in the Duluth area, and it is important to keep updating these properties to maximize energy efficiency and save the home owner money. According to www.bundle.com, the median cost of utilities in Duluth is $156.00 per month, or $1,872.00 per year. With prices like these it is easy to see why a homeowner would be concerned with energy efficiency.