DIN V 18599: The German holistic energy performance calculation method for the implementation of the EPBD

When an energy balance is calculated in accordance with DIN V 18599, an integrative approach is taken, i.e. the building carcass and the utilization of the buildings technical installations and equipment are evaluated together, taking the interaction of these factors into consideration. In order to provide a clearer structure, the DIN V 18599 series of preliminary standards is divided into several parts, each having a particular focus. The DIN V 18599 series of preliminary standards provides a method of calculating the overall energy balance of buildings. The described algorithm is applicable to the calculation of energy balances for: - residential buildings and non-residential buildings; - planned or new building construction and existing buildings. The procedure for calculating the balances is suitable for: - balancing the energy demands of buildings with partially pre-determined boundary conditions; - balancing the energy demand of buildings with freely-selectable boundary conditions from the general engineering aspect, e. g. with the objective of achieving a good comparison between energy demand and energy consumption (demand/ consumption comparison). The balance calculations take into account the energy demand and consumption for: - heating, - ventilation, - regulation and control of the indoor climate conditions (including cooling and humidification), - heating the domestic hot-water supply, and- lighting of buildings, including the additional electric power consumption (auxiliary energy) which is directly related to the energy supply. The method of the DIN V 18599 is fed into the EPBD CEN standards.