DesignBuilder October News

DesignBuilder v2025.1 Release

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We are excited to announce the release of DesignBuilder v2025.1, delivering a range of powerful new features and improvements to enhance your modelling, compliance checking, and interoperability workflows.

Key highlights in this latest release include:

• EnergyPlus v23.1 is the simulation engine, with various performance and feature enhancements.
• ASHRAE 90.1 2019 Appendix G and improved LEED v4.1 automated MEPC reports for faster and more reliable compliance with industry standards.
• DOAS Fresh Air Loops with a new generic fan type for more accurate representation of modern HVAC systems.
• Open XML Model Format for compatibility across DesignBuilder versions and data exchange with other tools, supported by new technical documentation for third-party development and interoperability.
• Parametric Insights through our online Analytics platform, enabling a deeper, more interactive analysis of optimisation, sensitivity, and parametric results through Bubble Plots, Parallel Coordinates, and Parametric Analysis charts.
• Closer integration with One Click LCA, using the latest data exchange format for a more efficient and accurate lifecycle assessment workflow.
  Block Conversion Tools that allow any block type to be converted to any other block type.
• NECB Templates help boost productivity when setting up Activity, Construction, Lighting, and Glazing model data for National Energy Code of Canada projects.
• Enhanced HVAC Design Capabilities, including HVAC Load Reports, which can now be generated based on industry-standard tabular layouts. Note this is a Beta feature in v2025.1.
• Yearly Version Numbering for easier tracking of updates and a clearer timeline of software evolution.

Check out our What’s New in DesignBuilder v2025.1 webpage for more details on the new version. We look forward to seeing how these new features help you achieve more with your modelling projects!

You can learn more about the main new features in our upcoming webinar on Tuesday November 25th. Please register here to attend the live webinar, or to receive a recording after the event.

Download DesignBuilder v2025.1

DesignBuilder: Powerful HVAC Modelling Made Easy

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DesignBuilder’s comprehensive EnergyPlus HVAC modelling environment combines advanced capabilities with an intuitive workflow. You can quickly define and simulate ANY HVAC system utilising DesignBuilder’s high-productivity toolset.

• Pre-connected, auto-sizable templates for all common EnergyPlus system types, dramatically reducing setup time.
• Drag-and-drop interface to build hot/chilled water, condenser, and air loops with mixers, splitters, and a rich library of components (boilers, chillers, heat pumps, fans, radiant systems).
• ASHRAE 90.1 baseline systems (#1–13) and performance templates to streamline compliance modeling.
• Zone grouping and support for a wide range of air distribution systems (FCUs, UFAD, displacement ventilation) for efficient layout and input.
• Support for complex networks including multiple AHUs, radiant systems, and ground source heat pumps, all with graphical validation for fast visual checks.

For advanced users, DesignBuilder enables unlimited system and controls customisation via EnergyPlus export and EMS scripting. You can model any system type, from air and water-side systems and natural and mixed-mode ventilation to solar hot water and ice thermal storage. DesignBuilder gives you full control, faster workflows, and unmatched flexibility, all in one easy to use platform.

View Modelling HVAC Systems Webinar