Simulation Analysis of Warehouse Energy Savings

Under this project a 200,000 square foot warehouse model for EnergyPlus was developed.  EnergyPlus was used for modeling of the envelope geometry and construction, for initial development of internal loads and for the HVAC systems.  The modeled warehouse meets the insulation and system efficiency requirements of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.  The Performance Rating Method, described in Appendix G ofStandard 90.1, describes a means of rating the energy efficiency of buildings which exceed the minimum requirements of the standard.  This procedure specifies the characteristics of a baseline building, and a method for comparing the energy consumption of a proposed building to the baseline.  This methodology was utilized in this work effort.

A variety of HVAC systems including VAV systems and direct- and indirect-fired unit heaters and makeup air units were analyzed for application to the warehouse.  The work provided an analysis of the energy impacts using various alternative heating systems in a warehouse application.