Effects of Global Climate Change on Building Energy Consumption and Its Implications in Florida

ABSTRACT

Many studies have investigated the impact of global warming on energy consumption. In this study, the morphing method and EnergyPlus (E+) software were used to investigate the impact of climate change on commercial building energy use under the A2 medium-CO₂. emission scenario. The study simulated electricity and gas consumption of nine types of commercial buildings in eight cities, representing three climate zones in Florida. The nine types of commercial buildings included apartments, hotels, offices, and schools. The energy simulation results showed the future trends of growth and reduction in electricity and gas consumption for cooling and heating in TMY2 (TMY3), 2020, 2050, and 2080 in the eight selected cities. In general, gas and electricity demands for heating are projected to decrease, and electricity demand for cooling increases, at different rates in various areas of Florida. The study provides guidance for policy‐makers and utility companies as they craft their response to climate change in various regions of Florida.

KEYWORDS:

• Building energy consumption
• building energy simulation
• global climate change