Detailed Monitoring and Energy Model Development of an Existing Multi-Unit Residential Building in Toronto, Canada

Energy modeling is a useful tool for evaluating the efficacy of possible building energy retrofit measures. Traditionally, energy models are developed using data collected from building floor plans and site visits and then calibrated using utility bills. In the work presented here, an energy model for an existing multi-unit residential building (MURB) was developed using this initial approach. Next, a refined approach was taken. Using data gathered from a suite-based monitoring program, input data uncertainties in the energy model were addressed. Data from one year of monitoring were assembled to characterize the actual building performance and to calibrate this refined energy model. The output of this refined model was compared to the output from the initial modeling approach in order to identify which parameters could be used to improve the model accuracy. It was found that the interior temperature measurements and the sub-metered suite electricity use were the most helpful in refining the energy model. However, other data collected including window operation and differential air pressures were useful for determining how the building was operating. The use of a local weather file generated from a roof-top weather station was also helpful and has been discussed.

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