Performance Modeling
Building performance modeling is the use of software to simulate system performance. Energy modeling, daylight modeling, and hygrothermal modeling are some of the types used.
When modeling is only used late in design, the modeling might have little value beyond keeping score. When using an iterative process starting early in design, results of modeling become feedback not only for the current project but also for future projects and design approaches.
Performance Modeling
Deep Dives
Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.
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Go with the Flows: The Promise and Peril of Hygrothermal Modeling
Feature Article
Tools modeling heat and moisture flows in building envelopes, such as WUFI, offer vital information for architects and engineers-but their misuse can do harm.
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Designing for the Next Century's Weather
Feature Article
How do you create a climate-responsive building in a changing climate? Brand new modeling techniques are helping us figure it out.
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Energy Modeling: Early and Often
Feature Article
For the biggest energy and cost savings, model early in design and model often, say the experts.
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Doing Daylighting Right
Feature Article
Harvesting daylight is a popular way to save energy and promote productivity. But getting it wrong is all too easy-and can have the opposite effects.
Quick Takes
Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.
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Using WUFI to Prevent Moisture Problems
Explainer
WUFI software helps predict and prevent moisture problems based on site, climate, building materials, mechanical systems, and more.
Product Guidance
Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.
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Choosing the Right Hygrothermal Modeling Tool
Product Review
From the free hygIRC software to an expanding suite of WUFI applications, the hygrothermal modeling world has many options to offer.
In The News
We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.
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EHDD Launches Spinoff of its Free Whole-Life Carbon Tool
News Brief
Free, whole-life carbon tool C.Scale spins off from EHDD as an independent public benefit corporation.
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How to Use the Right Tools to Design for Climate Change
News Analysis
Weather files that help designers plan for climate change will soon be readily available. ASHRAE design conditions still lag.
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Climate Scientists Called on to Produce Projections for Architects
News Brief
Architects want to design for future weather, but climate scientists aren’t formatting the data with them in mind.
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True District-Scale Energy Modeling Is on Its Way
News Brief
If you thought doing an energy model on one building was hard, try a whole district. But NREL is going to make it easier.