Energy Modeling Diagnostic Intensive teaches a structured approach for reviewing and validating energy models to determine whether results are realistic, defensible, and consistent with building physics.
This workshop focuses on how experienced practitioners evaluate models after they have been built, rather than how to build models in software.
The training follows a structured diagnostic workflow used by experienced modelers when reviewing simulation results. Instead of troubleshooting inputs randomly, the course demonstrates a step-by-step process for identifying problems quickly and preparing models for confident use or external review.
Using eQUEST as the demonstration platform, this training demonstrates practical diagnostic approaches used by experienced modelers. Although demonstrations use eQUEST as the example platform, the workflow and evaluation techniques apply broadly to energy modeling in tools such as OpenStudio, EnergyPlus, IES, TRACE, and similar simulation software.
Many energy models run successfully, but the results still raise questions.
This workshop demonstrates the diagnostic workflow experienced practitioners use to identify these issues quickly.
Most energy modeling training focuses on how to build models in software.
This workshop focuses on something different: how experienced practitioners evaluate simulation results after the model has been built.
Many models run successfully, but the results may still raise questions:
These diagnostic skills are rarely taught directly. Most practitioners develop them slowly over years of troubleshooting projects and responding to reviewer comments.
This training demonstrates the structured diagnostic workflow used by experienced modelers to evaluate simulation results quickly and determine whether a model can be trusted.
The outline below provides a detailed look at the diagnostic workflow demonstrated during the Energy Modeling Diagnostic Intensive.
The primary goal of the workshop is to help modelers review and validate simulation results efficiently, track diagnostic changes clearly, and avoid the chaos that often happens when troubleshooting turns into repeated guesswork.
Before beginning diagnostics, the workshop demonstrates practical ways to manage multiple troubleshooting runs without losing track of changes or allowing the model environment to become disorganized.
Experienced modelers can often tell within minutes whether a model looks realistic. This module demonstrates how to interpret the overall energy behavior of a building before diving into detailed troubleshooting.
Schedules and runtime behavior quietly drive a large portion of annual energy use. Small mistakes here can distort results without being obvious.
Loads in eQUEST are often confusing, inconsistent, or easy to misread. This module demonstrates how to isolate loads and use multiple reports to your advantage rather than getting stuck in conflicting outputs.
Cooling systems are one of the most common sources of unrealistic results and unexpected savings. Small modeling assumptions can quietly change performance in ways that are difficult to see without a structured diagnostic approach.
Once results are finalized, models often face scrutiny from reviewers, incentive programs, or project stakeholders. This module focuses on preparing models to withstand that review and on identifying assumptions that are likely to be challenged.
Important Note: The topics above represent only a portion of the diagnostic techniques explored during the workshop. The focus of the training is the broader workflow experienced practitioners use to determine whether simulation results are realistic, defensible, and ready for use.
This training is based on techniques developed through more than 20 years of professional energy modeling experience.
During that time I have reviewed thousands of energy models through both customer support and official program reviews. I have also submitted models to numerous incentive and compliance programs for external review.
The workflow demonstrated in this workshop reflects the practical approach used when determining whether simulation results are realistic, defensible, and ready for submission.
Many energy modelers encounter situations where a simulation runs successfully, but the results still raise questions. This workshop demonstrates the diagnostic workflow experienced practitioners use to answer questions such as:
This training is currently being produced.
Recorded modules begin releasing April 21, 2026.
Participants receive access to modules as they are finalized.
Early Enrollment (Founding Cohort): $695
This introductory price is available for the first cohort while the training is being finalized.
Standard Price: $795
The standard price will apply after the early enrollment period.
Enrollment includes:
Enrollment for this workshop will close once the current cohort is finalized.
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