What is an 8760 Energy Model?
An 8760 energy model is an hour-by-hour analysis that simulates a building’s performance for all 8,760 hours in a given 12-month period. This method uses the actual sequence of days and weather data, instead of averages. An 8760 analysis produces the most accurate energy model and operating cost estimates.
Load profile helps energy efficiency
The best way to save energy is to use it only when you need it. A building’s 8760 analysis allows you to design your heating and cooling system to use energy when needed. Therefore, a buildings heating and cooling system can be controlled efficiently.
8760 best analysis of all variables
There are many building energy analysis methods available. However, the 8760 method is the only analysis that can simultaneously consider weather data, variations in building loads, occupancy schedules, and numerous other factors on an hourly basis.
Incorporates building’s thermal behavior and HVAC response
An 8760 energy model simulates the dynamic hour-by-hour thermal behavior of a building and the response required by the heating and cooling equipment to adapt to this changing environment. This simulation provides high-quality data that can be used to predict operating costs and help to design and operate a more efficient system.
This 8760 hour-by-hour method consistently produces superior accuracy through:
• Better estimates of monthly and annual energy uses;
• More accurate load profiles;
• Better time of use energy data; and
• More accurate estimates of peak demands.
Additional 8760 benefits
Using the 8760 method improves design accuracy, helps optimize full size or hybrid geothermal systems, and can be extremely useful when evaluating failing geothermal systems.
Additionally, advances in design and controls software allow the engineer to produce 8760 loads and use these loads to design customized solutions and energy analyses for all geothermal projects.
The better the data the lower the costs.