An economic feasibility optimization method for the life cycle cost (LCC) has been developed to apply energy saving techniques in the early design stages of a building. The method was developed using default data (e.g., operation schedules), energy consumption prediction equations and cost prediction equations utilizing design variables considered in the early design phase. With certain equations developed, an LCC model was constructed using the computational program MATLAB, to create an automated optimization process. To verify the results from the newly developed assessment tool, a case study on an office building was performed to outline the results of the designer's proposed model and the cost optimal model.

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The study intends to develop energy load prediction equations which can be easily used to estimate the energy consumption of multi-residential buildings in the central climatic zone in Korea during the early design stage. Based on an intensive literature search, energy strategies and performance levels which affect heating and cooling energy consumption were established for a reference baseline building. To analyze the sensitivity of each energy strategy to overall performance, the table of Orthogonal Array was used to decrease the number of experiments to 81 in spite of the fact that the required number for carrying out the simulation was 3 12 (=531,441). The computer simulation was performed using EnergyPlus. At the same time, the Analysis of Variance was conducted to estimate the relative importance of each energy factor. The results of the ANOVA were used as data for multiple regression analysis which could develop the load prediction equations. The proposed equation will provide architects with a simple and yet reliable tool to estimate the energy load of a building at the early design stage. At the same time, it will enable architects to develop the best design solution in terms of energy performance.

Abstract:This study suggests an optimization method for the life cycle cost (LCC) in an economic feasibility analysis when applying energy saving techniques in the early design stage of a building. Literature and previous studies were reviewed to select appropriate optimization and LCC analysis techniques. The energy simulation (Energy Plus) and computational program (MATLAB) were linked to provide an automated optimization process. From the results, it is suggested that this process could outline the cost optimization model with which it is possible to minimize the LCC. To aid in understanding the model, a case study on an industrial building was performed to outline the operations of the cost optimization model including energy savings. An energy optimization model was also presented to illustrate the need for the cost optimization model.