A review of energy modelling methods and the application of wireless sensor networks (WSNs)

The development of energy models for buildings fmds application in green building design, distribution planning and in the control and optimisation of building energy management systems. The World Business Council of Sustainable Development (WBCSD) estimates that buildings account for 40% of world primary energy consumption[ 1] . The purpose of this paper is to present an energy modelling method for daily energy consumption modelling that was applied to an on-campus dual-occupancy building. The paper also highlights other methods that have been applied elsewhere in the energy modelling of buildings with a view to identifying challenges associated with development of energy models for buildings. Of interest is how these modelling challenges impact on the energy efficiency performance of the buildings at design stage and after commissioning. Uncertainties represented by the human factor element and the non-energised sub-system in the energy consumption model may require their treatment from a statistical, probabilistic or even possibilistic approach. The paper presents a game theory approach to energy modelling and optimisation and a regression model result. Emerging and developing economies like Namibia can draw useful lessons from the international experience in the building certification process[2]. Lastly, the paper discusses the use of wireless sensor networks for continuous and realtime energy monitoring of end-use equipment in buildings. The use of wireless sensor networks may address some of the teething problems in the development of energy models for the built environment.