Topic 1: Simulating Heat and Energy Flow
This topic focuses on the underlying physical processes of building heat and energy flows and the methods used to model them. The key elements of room heat transfer processes are examined and students are presented with an overview of the methods commonly used to model these processes in energy simulation. Further to the lessons on the qualitative aspects of thermal comfort in the Energy in Buildings module, quantitative study is made of classic steady state and recent dynamic models of thermal comfort. Particular attention is given to the integration of heat transfer models in the calculation of room temperatures and energy flows and the means by which simulations of whole buildings can be developed. This is done in the context of design calculations that use 24 hours of data and whole building simulations using annual climate data.

Topic 2: Building Thermal Performance
The focus of this topic is the relationship between building design parameters - such as fabric thermal mass - and the building's response, in terms of internal conditions and energy consumption. Students study fabric design, building form, orientation and shading and examine their importance in defining the building's thermal performance. Passive behaviour and the interaction of the building thermal mass with airflow and time varying heat gains are studied, both qualitatively and by practical simulation exercises.

Topic 3: System Performance
The energy associated with the mechanical and electrical systems of buildings is considered in this topic. Students receive an overview of the behaviour of both conventional and low-energy systems, how they affect performance, energy consumption and carbon emissions. Methods used to model building systems in both annual calculations and detailed component approaches are examined.

Topic 4: Handling Simulation Data
The proper handling of both input and output data is important to the successful application of energy simulation methods. Students examine the ways buildings and occupant behaviour can be represented consistently and how data quality can be controlled. Attention is given to the final processing, analysis and presentation of simulation results and how costs and emissions can be calculated from predicted energy flows.