Comparing Predicted to Actual Energy Consumption of LEED-Certified Dormitory Buildings: An Aggregate Analysis

This paper explores the potential sources of variation observed between predicted and actual energy consumption in LEED-certified dormitory buildings. Past studies have revealed that while building energy modeling studies conducted for LEED certification are relatively accurate from a programmatic perspective, results may vary considerably on an individual basis. Identifying the variation sources between predicted and actual energy consumption values can improve future building energy analyses. This paper evaluates the whole building energy analysis conducted for two, similarly constructed LEED-certified dormitory buildings by comparing it to the same buildings now in operation. It begins with a comparative analysis between the building's predicted and actual electricity and natural gas consumption based on owner-provided utility consumption data. A discussion follows of the potential areas where the proposed building's energy model may not accurately reflect the as-built dormitory as well as future work cited for this research study.