EnergyPlus Add-Ons
![Graphic representation of how various add-ons work with EnergyPlus. In the center is EnergyPlus. Going into EnergyPlus is, from left to right, Web Interface, OpenStudio, and Weather Data. Coming out of EnergyPlus is ResultsViewer. Finally, the image shows OpenStudio interfacing with Google SketchUp.](images/eplus_addons_2.gif)
The products below all work with EnergyPlus to improve overall functionality.
Additional Release Components
In order to limit the size of the EnergyPlus installer, various utilities and minor updates from the EnergyPlus development team are available as separate downloads from the EnergyPlus helpdesk. These include items such as transition utilities for past releases, California TDV data files, text editor syntax files, and other tools.
EnergyPlus Example File Generator
A Web-based service is available that creates and runs EnergyPlus input files for simple models of commercial buildings. The input files (and annual results summary files) are sent to your e-mail address as attachments. You can access the service and customize the characteristics of the building you want to model using the EnergyPlus Example File Generator. Learn more by viewing the EnergyPlus Building Data Input Forms Help File.
OpenStudio Application Suite
The OpenStudio Application Suite is a cross-platform collection of software tools to support whole building energy modeling using EnergyPlus and advanced daylight analysis using Radiance. OpenStudio is an open source project, developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), to facilitate community development, extension, and private sector adoption. OpenStudio includes graphical interfaces, including an updated Google SketchUp Plug-in, along with a Software Development Kit.
Legacy OpenStudio Plug-in for Google SketchUp
The Legacy OpenStudio Plug-in works with the Google SketchUp 3D drawing program. This free plug-in makes it easy to create and edit the building geometry in your EnergyPlus input files. The Legacy OpenStudio Plug-in also allows you to launch EnergyPlus simulations and view the results without leaving SketchUp.
OpenStudio ResultsViewer
OpenStudio ResultsViewer displays EnergyPlus output in a graphical format. This program is now included as part of the OpenStudio Application Suite.
Weather Data
Download weather data that works with EnergyPlus. Weather data is critical to the accuracy of your building model. The weather data is available for regions throughout the world.
Other Tools for EnergyPlus
Many third party tools exist that work with EnergyPlus. These include user interfaces and tools for creating EnergyPlus input files.