Dec 5, 2008

Much awesome - Google Energy Design Plug-in From DOE

The Energy Design Plugin was created by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy.

Designed to integrate seamlessly with the SketchUp environment, the plugin allows you to use the standard SketchUp tools to create and edit EnergyPlus zones and surfaces. You can explore your EnergyPlus input files by using all of the native SketchUp 3D capabilities to view the geometry from any vantage point, apply different rendering styles, and perform accurate shadowing studies. The plugin allows you to mix EnergyPlus simulation content with decorative content such as background images, landscaping, people, and architectural finish details—all within the same SketchUp model.

The plugin adds the building energy simulation capabilities of EnergyPlus to the SketchUp environment. You can launch an EnergyPlus simulation of the model you are working on and view the results without leaving SketchUp.

Highlights of the beta version of the Energy Design Plugin include:

  • The ability to create and edit EnergyPlus zones and surfaces
  • The ability to launch EnergyPlus and view the results without leaving SketchUp

This plugin is compatible with both the Free and the Pro versions of Google SketchUp 6. It is not compatible with SketchUp 5. EnergyPlus must be installed on your computer for full access to all of the plugin functionality. However, EnergyPlus can be installed after the plugin.

In order to download your copy of the Energy Design Plugin, you must fill out the registration form. After your registration is complete, you will be able to download the installation file on the last page. An e-mail containing your installation password will be sent to you within 24 hours.

Register for the Energy Design Plugin.