A Performance Comparison of Chiller Models for Energy Optimization in Commercial Buildings

In recent years, commercial buildings in Singapore have experienced a significant surge in energy consumption, primarily driven by the increasing demand for cooling systems due to global warming and population growth. Chillers, being major energy consumers, play a crucial role in maintaining optimal indoor temperatures. To address this challenge, various chiller models, including DOE-2 and modified Gordon-Ng models, have been explored to simplify complex chiller systems. However, selecting the most suitable model for different applications remains challenging due to discrepancies in performance indicators. This study presents a comprehensive comparison of these models, focusing on their predictive performance capabilities. The analysis serves as a foundational step for subsequent chiller optimization strategies aimed at reducing overall energy consumption in chiller plants. The results indicate that the modified Gordon-Ng model exhibits superior predictive accuracy compared to other models. This research is particularly pertinent in the context of Singapore’s sustainability goals, including greening 80% of its buildings by gross floor area by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Optimizing chiller performance can significantly contribute to these objectives, making this study a valuable contribution to the field of energy efficiency in commercial buildings.