ResStock Multifamily Building Simulation Details

asked 2025-07-30 10:55:37 -0500

updated 2025-07-30 12:25:12 -0500

Hi,

I’m running simulations for multifamily buildings using the “ResStock – 2024_resstock_tmy3_release_2 – building_energy_models” dataset. I’ve downloaded a copy of the model files and have a few questions:

Based on my understanding, ResStock runs simulation for one unit and then aggregates the results by multiplying the number of units in the building. For this model, it seems like a mid-floor corner unit was picked for simulation. How does the tool account for differences (boundary conditions, solar heat gain differences) among other units (e.g., top-floor, ground-floor, or interior units)?
The model seems to represent the entire building as apartment units only, without any common areas. Is that accurate?

I understand that ResStock may not be ideal for detailed investigations of an individual building or subtype, but would appreciate any insights you may have.

Thank you.

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answered 2025-07-31 14:21:59 -0500

joseph-robertson

361 ●4 ●3 http://www.nrel.gov/

OpenStudio-HPXML, which is what ResStock uses to create building model input files, contains several arguments for specifying whether a dwelling unit’s walls (left, right, front, back), ceiling (below another apartment), and floor (above another apartment) are adiabatic or not. ResStock has probability distributions for describing the location of a dwelling unit within a multi-unit building. Samples from these distributions determine both the unit’s horizontal location (left, middle, right for single-family attached and multifamily buildings) as well as level (bottom, middle, top for multifamily buildings) relative to the building. Logic contained within the ResStockArguments measure uses these horizontal location and level arguments (along with arguments corresponding to sampled options for number of floors above grade, number of building units, and corridor position) to populate the OpenStudio-HPXML adiabatic surface -related arguments. Windows, for example, are not placed on adiabatic walls.
Correct, ResStock does not explicitly model or account for any common area loads.

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