An Introduction to Calibrated Building Energy Models

After participating in this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the fundamentals of energy modelling and its role in decarbonizing buildings.
• Differentiate between modelling standards, with a focus on calibrated versus non-calibrated approaches.
• Apply ASHRAE Guideline 14 for calibrated modelling.
• Describe the full energy modelling workflow for both new and existing buildings.
• Perform regression analysis and weather normalization on utility data.
• Identify and adjust key model input parameters to achieve model calibration.
• Communicate calibrated modelling results to stakeholders.

Description
Buildings contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. As energy codes tighten and retrofit opportunities expand, energy modellers are increasingly asked to provide accurate, calibrated simulations of real-world energy use. This 2-day course introduces participants to the fundamentals of building energy modelling, with a focused exploration of calibrated energy models that align with actual utility data using ASHRAE Guideline 14 methods.

Participants will begin to develop a foundation in simulation workflows and calibration techniques. Through a combination of presentations, interactive discussions, and simplified hands-on exercises, the course aims to equip energy professionals with a practical understanding and techniques to produce calibrated models that support retrofit assessments, incentive programs, and performance verification.

Who Should Attend
This course is ideal for:

• Practicing building performance engineers
• Energy modellers (junior to intermediate)
• Engineering interns or graduate students

Professionals involved in retrofit analysis, energy auditing, incentive programs, or decarbonization strategy

Introduction to Energy Modelling

• Purpose and applications
• Common software platforms and equations used
• Inputs, outputs, and model assumptions
• Typical modelling challenges and misconceptions

Review of Energy Modelling Standards

• New vs. existing building standards
• Absolute vs. relative performance targets
• Overview of ASHRAE 90.1, NECB, and others
• Introduction to ASHRAE Guideline 14

Energy Modelling Workflow

• Geometry and zoning
• Envelope characteristics and internal gains
• HVAC system setup
• Schedules, controls, and operational assumptions
• Troubleshooting and iterative development

Introduction to Calibrated Modelling

• What is calibration and why is it needed?
• Review of ASHRAE Guideline 14 calibration metrics
• Normalizing utility data for weather and operational changes
• When to calibrate vs. when to model “as-designed”

The Calibration Process – Step-by-Step

• Gathering utility and weather data
• Performing regression analysis
• Creating baseline models
• Adjusting model inputs: prioritizing transparency and traceability
• Verifying model error and establishing model validity

Understanding Uncertainty and Input Sensitivity

• Why multiple input combinations can yield similar results
• Sensitivity testing and critical thinking in model setup
• Limitations of software defaults and assumptions

Hands-On Calibration Exercise

• Excel-based simplified models (provided)
• Participants calibrate a model based on mock data
• Breakout discussions on approaches
• Interactive Wordcloud/posting of strategies and reflections

Discussion and Lessons Learned

• Group debrief on exercise
• Real-world calibration challenges and solutions
• Participant examples (if available)
• Practical applications: audits, incentive programs, retrofit studies

Wrap-up and Final Q&A

• Summary of learning outcomes
• Resources for continued learning
• Introduction to potential next-level courses