The software listed below have either been used for Harvard projects, or are widely-used programs. In general, Harvard prefers a free software that the University has access to such as EnergyPlus or eQUEST, though often times it may be necessary to use a different program to run more sophisticated analysis. Harvard considers the electronic energy model files to be part of the building design and expects an as-built model to be submitted as part of the project close-out documentation.
|
SOFTWARE |
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES |
PROJECTS |

eQUEST |
Pros:
-
Available free of charge online --easily reviewed by HGCI or other sustainability consultants
- Easy to use
- (Uses DOE2.2, so different from models done with DOE-2)
| Law School NW Corner
Schlesinger Library |

EnergyPlus |
Pros:
- A DOE-2 tool
-
From the creators of BLAST and DOE-2 - merges the two programs
-
One of the most powerful - allows detailed analysis for complex designs
-
Includes time steps of less than one hour, modular systems and plant integrated with heat balance-based zone simulation, multizone air flow, thermal comfort, water use, natural ventilation, and photovoltaic systems
- Can calculate life cycle costing
- Can model specific design issues and innovations, such as photovoltaics, time units of less than one hour, and thermal comfort
Cons:
-
Stand along program without a 'user'-friendly graphical interface, reads and write as text files, which makes it more difficult to use. A graphic interface, and an possibly open source option, are under development, to increase usability.
|
None to date |

VisualDOE
|
Pros:
- A DOE-2.1E tool
- Graphic interface with a customizable library of building elements
- Good for modeling envelope and HVAC options - up to 20 options
- Can print summaries, graphics, and hourly reports directly from the program
Cons:
- Passive solar capabilities not as good
|
Hamilton Hall
Wyss Hall
5 Cowperthwaite
Gallatin Hall |

VisualSPARK |
Pros:
-
Models complex building envelopes and mechanical systems beyond the scope of EnergyPlus and DOE-2
- Runs 10-20 times faster than similar programs
- Graphical interface
- Available free of charge
|
None to date |

Trane Trace 700 |
Pros:
- Good for sizing equipment and determining loads
-
Ability to model additional options, such as cogneration, heat recovery, and thermal storage
- Can perform life cycle cost analysis
Cons:
- Not DOE-2 software
- Not as useful for energy simulation - mainly for sizing
- Some limitation in modeling some architectural features
|
Blackstone
90 Mount Auburn Street
60 Oxford
One Western Avenue (Trane Trace 600)
Weld Hill, Arnold Arboretum |

Development, HVAC Loads Calculation Program |
Cons:
- Not DOE-2 software
- More of a load calculation tool than energy modeling simulation
|
Zero Arrow Street |
Updated:
Thursday, August 13, 2009 9:48 AM
