Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal Modeling with the EnergyPlus Calculation Engine: Preprint

EnergyPlus is a whole-building energy analysis software program developed by DOE. It was recently expanded with the addition of new active solar components for simulation of photovoltaic and solar thermal hot-water heating systems. The active solar models were integrated into the program because low- or zero-energy buildings often use renewable energy resources to accomplish their energy-savinggoals. This paper provides an overview of the new models for PV and solar collectors in EnergyPlus and describes some preliminary efforts to validate the implementations.