Hourly energy simulation was used in combination with a life cycle assessment framework to model the environmental effects of energy consumption in buildings. The energy efficiencies and environmental impacts resulting from the construction and operation of alternative technnologies for providing space and water heating, cooling, and electrical power for equipment and lights in commercial buildings is evaluated. The analysis shows that building load characteristics are one of the main factors affecting the selection of technologies and operational strategies to limit the environmental impacts of building energy systems.
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