What is Simergy

Simergy is a Graphical User Interface for the EnergyPlus simulation engine. They are both developed by the US Department of Energy.

Using Simergy

Simergy provides users with the option to import geometry from BIM or 2-D CAD, as well as the ability to create geometry directly. Translation of geometry from Building Information Models (BIM) to Building Energy Models (BEM) has always been a challenge, and Simergy presents a developing solution for this, as well as enabling additional workflows including:
Workflow #1 - Industry Foundation Class (IFC) 2.3.2 Model View Definition for BIM to bring building geometry and additional information into Simergy. (Version 1 Simergy will also support 'gbxml' import.)
Workflow #2 - Build geometry from imported floor plans (dxf or dwg).
Workflow #3 - Build your own geometry utilizing the Simergy tools to develop models quick and easily from the earliest stages.

Workflow Options

Translation of geometry from Building Information Models (BIM) to Building Energy Models (BEM) has always been a challenge. Now there are different workflows based on IFC-Design Concept BIM and on gbXML to bring building geometry and additional information intoSimergy. In addition, users can build geometry from base floor plans or build their own geometry to develop new designs from the earliest stages.

More Design Alteratives

The interface enables users to evaluate complex 'what ifs' early and often for new and retrofit projects. Up to five design alternatives can be included within the same file, so that the user can do comparative analysis at early stages and/or develop their LEED Energy Model.

HVAC Templates

The initial set of HVAC templates can be split into three main categories:

High performance options to assist getting to Net Zero Energy
ASHRAE 90.1 baseline systems
Standard system types
The system templates and default values were developed in collaboration with some of the top engineers and energy modelers in the industry to provide a starting point based on industry best practice.

Drag and Drop Systems

Whether you prefer to build your HVAC designs from scratch, use the system templates distributed with Simergy or use one of your own custom system templates, the drag and drop capabilities facilitate your work. The component level performance characteristics are at your fingertips and you can visualize and check the integrity of the system design at any point.

Prerequisite Experience Use Simergy

Simergy is a Graphical User Interface which makes it easy for a beginner to start using. However, there are a lot of inputs and options and it’s built on the EnergyPlus engine so knowledge of building systems and the Eplus engine are beneficial.

Who Developed Simergy?

Simergy is a public/private partnership led by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Supposedly professional versions of the GUI are being planned by the private sector partners. We’re not sure how we feel about that since our tax dollars are going toward the development of the program.

Companies and organizations that are involved:
Public:
US Department of Energy
State of California Energy Commission
Lawrence Berkeley National Lab
Hydro Quebec
NEEA

Private:
Trane (Ingersoll Rand Inc)
Digital Alchemy
Infosys

Simergy Outputs

Finding your way through the maze of simulation results can be a daunting task. The interface provides new types of summary reports that present the results on many levels, basic to detailed. When you need more information, the data visualization capabilities allow you to explore the output variables individually, in groups and across multiple design alternatives.