OpenStudio is a free, open-source graphical interface and software development kit (SDK) for whole-building energy simulation, built on the EnergyPlus simulation engine. It provides architects, engineers, educators, and researchers with an accessible, visual environment to create, edit, run, and analyse building energy models without requiring direct programming in EnergyPlus input files. OpenStudio integrates directly with SketchUp for geometry modelling and supports the full EnergyPlus feature set, including HVAC systems, renewable energy, daylighting, thermal comfort, and occupancy schedules. Within EXCEL4HOUSING 4.0, OpenStudio is particularly relevant for training professionals in energy-efficient building design, retrofit strategy comparison, and performance-based decision-making. It lowers the technical barrier to advanced energy simulation, making it suitable for VET and higher education contexts, and serves as an ideal complement to EnergyPlus (Tool 7) by providing a user-friendly visual interface.
Keywords
Main theme addressed by the tool
Energy Efficiency; Digitalization
Objectives
OpenStudio is used to create, edit, and run whole-building energy simulation models using the EnergyPlus engine. Its purpose is to help users model heating, cooling, HVAC systems, lighting, daylighting, and renewable energy in buildings, compare energy efficiency strategies and retrofit scenarios, assess the impact of design choices on energy performance, and support evidence-based decisions for low-energy and sustainable housing. In training contexts, it helps educators demonstrate building physics and energy modelling in a visual, interactive environment.
Target audience
Architects; engineers; energy modellers; HVAC specialists; retrofit planners; building performance consultants; researchers; trainers; VET and higher education students.
Benefits
OpenStudio reduces the complexity of whole-building energy simulation by providing a graphical interface over EnergyPlus. Users benefit from visual model creation, faster iteration on design alternatives, built-in HVAC system templates, integration with SketchUp for 3D geometry, and compatibility with EnergyPlus results analysis tools. It enables learners and professionals to compare retrofit strategies, optimise building envelopes and HVAC systems, and develop practical energy modelling skills applicable to real housing projects.
Data requirements
Building geometry (e.g. SketchUp model or IFC), climate/weather file for the project location, thermal envelope properties (insulation, glazing, shading), occupancy and operation schedules, HVAC system type and parameters, internal gains, and ventilation/infiltration assumptions. Basic knowledge of building physics and energy modelling concepts is recommended.
Learning Profiles addressed
- BIM for Energy & Lifecycle Specialist
- Deep Retrofit Site Coordinator
- Energy Renovation & Performance Specialist
- HVAC & Renewable Integration Specialist
- Smart Building Systems Integrator
- Sustainable Construction Project Manager
How to use the tool – Tutorials
OpenStudio Getting Started Guide: https://openstudio.net/assets/openstudio-application-getting-started.pdf
YouTube tutorial series by NREL: https://www.youtube.com/user/NRELgov/search?query=openstudio
Learning materials
Official OpenStudio documentation: https://openstudio.net/category/openstudio-sdk/
EnergyPlus/OpenStudio Bootcamp resources available through NREL and Big Ladder Software.
Integration guide with SketchUp and EnergyPlus available at https://openstudio.net/
Language
English (multilingual via community resources)
Cost
Free
Other information
OpenStudio serves as the recommended graphical front-end for EnergyPlus (Tool 7 in this toolbox), making these two tools highly complementary. Particularly relevant for training professionals in energy-efficient housing design and HVAC integration.
