One of the key advantages of DSM is its ability to incorporate hourly weather data with time-step control. This allows for a more accurate representation of the building's energy performance throughout the year, considering variations in weather conditions. Additionally, DSM enables the modelling of orientation and photovoltaic (PV) inclination at one-degree increments, providing detailed insights into the impact of building orientation on energy consumption and PV system efficiency.
DSM also allows for a more detailed representation of the building geometry, resulting in better simulation outcomes. It takes into account internal openings within the building, which can significantly influence energy flows and thermal comfort. Moreover, DSM offers improved modelling of glazing properties, such as solar shading, reflection, and solar heat gain. This enhanced representation of glazing behavior leads to more accurate predictions of energy consumption and occupant comfort.
Another advantage of DSM is its ability to consider inter-zone heat transfer and model thermal mass more effectively. By accounting for heat exchange between different zones within a building and accurately simulating the thermal storage capacity of materials, DSM provides a more comprehensive understanding of energy dynamics and thermal comfort. Consequently, the analysis produced by DSM is overall more accurate than that obtained through SBEM.
In terms of regulatory compliance, a building is classified as a Level 5 building in Scotland, England, and Wales if it meets any of the following criteria:
Ventilation with enhanced thermal coupling to a structure, automatic blind control, or the presence of atria.
With the introduction of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in 2018 in England and Wales, building owners are increasingly opting for DSM modelling for EPCs, even if their buildings do not fall under the Level 5 category. This shift is driven by the desire to obtain more accurate energy assessments and demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency regulationns.
