Does this code tell me if my building is energy compliant?

No, it only provides the method to calculate energy demand. Compliance is checked against benchmarks in other regulations like the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC).

What is the main output of calculations based on this code?

The primary output is the annual energy need for space heating and cooling, typically expressed in kWh/year or kWh/m²/year.

Do I need weather data to use this code?

Yes, climatic data (like temperature, humidity, solar radiation) for the building's location is a crucial input for the calculations.

Is this code based on an international standard?

Yes, this standard is technically equivalent to ISO 13790:2008 'Energy performance of buildings — Calculation of energy use for space heating and cooling'.

IS 16279

: 2015

Energy performance of buildings - calculation of energy demand for heating and cooling - general criteria

CurrentSpecializedCode of PracticeBIMEnvironmental · Green Building and Sustainability

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This standard establishes the general criteria and a calculation methodology for determining the energy demand for space heating and cooling in buildings. It provides a framework for assessing a building's thermal performance by considering factors like heat transfer, ventilation, and internal/solar gains. It is a key document for energy efficiency analysis and green building design.

Establishes general criteria for the calculation of energy demand for heating and cooling of buildings, contributing to energy efficiency assessment.

Quick Reference Values

Sensible heat gain from person at rest (seated)75 W

Default lighting heat gain for offices12 W/m²

Default equipment heat gain for offices15 W/m²

Standard indoor design temperature (cooling)25 °C

Standard indoor design temperature (heating)21 °C

Key Formulas

Q_H,nd = Q_H,ht - η_H,gn * Q_H,gn  —  Annual energy need for heating

Q_C,nd = Q_C,gn - η_C,ls * Q_C,ht  —  Annual energy need for cooling

Φ_tr = H_tr * (θ_int - θ_ext) — Heat transfer by transmission

Φ_ve = H_ve * (θ_int - θ_sup) — Heat transfer by ventilation

Practical Notes

This code provides the methodology, but actual implementation is almost always done using specialized energy simulation software like EnergyPlus, eQuest, or IES VE.

The accuracy of the results heavily depends on the quality of input data, particularly climatic data, building envelope properties (U-values, SHGC), and operational schedules.

This standard is often used in conjunction with the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and for green building rating systems like GRIHA and IGBC to demonstrate performance.