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The Building Performance Analysis Conference and SimBuild in Chicago, USA is a highly technical professional event co-organised by ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) and IBPSA-USA (International Building Performance Simulation Association – USA). It serves as a premier forum for engineers, researchers, architects, simulation specialists, energy modelers, and other built environment professionals to share knowledge, research, and practical experience in building performance analysis and simulation.
This conference emphasises the application of advanced simulation and modelling tools to improve the performance of buildings throughout their lifecycle — from design and construction to operation and retrofit. Past editions have focused on themes such as reducing operational carbon, enhancing energy efficiency, occupant comfort, resilience to extreme climates, and whole-building performance strategies.
Attendees benefit from a rigorous technical programme that includes peer-reviewed paper presentations, invited talks, seminars, panel discussions, and interactive sessions featuring cutting-edge research and case studies. The event also incorporates collaborative competitions, such as the ASHRAE LowDown Showdown, which challenges multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative modelling solutions that address real-world performance criteria.
The SimBuild portion of the event historically provides a specialised track dedicated to simulation software development, methodology improvements, and practical modelling workflows, attracting professionals who aim to push the boundaries of what modelling can achieve in practical building design and analysis.
Beyond technical sessions, the conference fosters industry networking and collaboration across academia, practice, and software development communities. It draws a diverse audience of practitioners, scholars, and vendors interested in advancing simulation-based decision-making and innovation in energy-efficient and sustainable buildings.
Held biennially in Chicago — a city with strong ties to engineering and architectural innovation — the Building Performance Analysis Conference and SimBuild remains a cornerstone event for professionals committed to improving building performance through analytical and simulation-driven approaches.