Multiplatform Approach for Optimizing a Single-Family Residential Building in Rio de Janeiro

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the contrivution of computational optimization tools to energy studies applied to single-family residential buildings located in Rio de Janeiro. Theoretical Framework: The article was based on a bibliographic survey carried out in the Scopus database of the main computational tools and their optimization tools used in thermo-energetic studies of buildings. Method: The study evaluated the energy performance of a single-family residential building using computer simulation with the EnergyPlus tools and the JEPlus optimization interface. The construction guidelines that varied were: wall material, internal and external roof material, percentage of opening of transparent elements, solar absorptance and orientation. Results and Discussion: The JEPlus interface made it possible to simulate 1,080 building models simultaneously. The data enabled a stratified analysis of each of the construction guidelines in terms of their influence on the building's energy consumption. The variation in parameters resulted in an impact of between 0.5% and 20% on annual energy consumption. Research Implications: The computational tools selected resulted in reliable data, quickly and free of charge, with a sample of results significantly superior to other studies. Originality/Value: This research has a direct impact on the construction sector by highlighting multi-platforms that can be used in studies aimed at achieving energy-efficient buildings.