REM/Rate™ collects building characteristics and simulation inputs from the user and utilizes OpenStudio-ERI and EnergyPlus to perform the underlying energy modeling calculations. REM/Rate™ does not modify or override the default simulation algorithms, calculation methodologies, or ANSI/ASHRAE 140 testing frameworks provided by these engines.
Compliance with ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 (Standard Method of Test for the Evaluation of Building Energy Analysis Computer Programs) is achieved through the use of these underlying simulation engines, both of which have established testing and validation procedures demonstrating conformance with the standard.
EnergyPlus 24.2.0
EnergyPlus is the building energy simulation engine used by OpenStudio-ERI and performs the detailed hourly energy calculations for REM/Rate™ analyses.
EnergyPlus 24.2.0 ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140 Documentation
OpenStudio-ERI 1.9.4
OpenStudio-ERI serves as the rules engine that translates residential building inputs into a standardized energy model and manages the calculations required for ERI and related residential energy program analyses.
OpenStudio-ERI Testing Framework Documentation
In accordance with Section R405.5.2 of the 2024 IRC, REM/Rate™ provides the following ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 compliance report. The report documents the software, calculation engines, version information, testing framework, and compliance methodology used for residential energy analysis.