Cost Settings Panel
Note:This topic does not apply for the ANS module. To set up cost calculations with ANS, see the Assign Cost Libraries topic.
The Cost Settings panel must be defined in order to run a model. By default, cost calculation is not enabled and no further input is required to define the panel.
Figure 1: The Cost Settings panel
Enable Cost Calculation
The first step in any cost calculation is to enable it in the Cost Settings panel. The following options are available:
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Do not calculate - Selected by default.
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Pump Energy Only - Only calculate the costs associated with the power consumption of pumps. The energy cost and system life must be entered in Cost Settings.
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Calculate - Enable full calculation of costs. In addition to defining Cost Settings, Cost Libraries must be defined to use this feature.
Including Objects in Cost Report
Workspace objects must be included in the Cost Report to have their costs calculated. This allows only analyzing the cost of certain parts of the model - useful if only one pump is being replaced, or if an expansion to an existing system is being considered. To include the objects in the Cost Report simply select "Include Cost in Report" on the object's Cost tab, as shown below. Finer detail in how the Cost is included can be set by clicking the Cost Application button.
Figure 1: Include Cost in Report
Energy cost data can be specified through an Energy Cost Library, or by directly entering an energy cost on the Cost Settings panel. Using an energy cost library allows you to specify multiple energy costs, such as energy costs at both peak and off-peak rates.
Cost Definitions
The Cost Definitions section allows you to specify the type of costs to be determined. Check the boxes next to the items that are of interest. The options are:
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Material
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Installation
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Maintenance
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Operation/Energy
When Cost calculations are enabled the System Life is required. Interest Rate and inflation rate will default to zero, and may be changed by the user.
The System Life affects all recurring costs. It can also affect non-recurring costs if the Service Duration is used.
See Cost Libraries for detailed discussions regarding recurring and non-recurring costs.
