Towards Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Academic Institutions: The Case of the University of Swaziland (UNISWA), Mbabane Campus

Abstract

An exploratory study was carried out at the UNISWA, Mbabane campus to describe the use of energy at the campus. It followed both quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collection and analysis. The campus frequently experience power cuts and surges which interrupt work and studies. Although there is a standby generator on the campus, the situation remains dire as such generator only supply a few buildings on the campus and sometimes it does not automatically turn on. The study was intended to assist UNISWA in identifying energy efficient appliances and practices in order to cut down its electricity consumption and save money. A purposive convenience stratified random sampling was used to draw a sample of 47 participants to the study from a total population of 600 (academic and non-academic staff, students and grounds men and women). This allowed a 10% margin of error and 85% confidence level and a 40% response distribution. Questionnaires and an observation checklist were used to collect data. A Watt-hour meter was used to measure the ratings of the appliances. The study found that 65% of the energy appliances used are not efficient and only 35% of the appliances are efficient. The campus is not also using energy efficiency practices as some of the respondents left electric appliances such as fans and heaters running when they leave offices (41.7%) and (16.7% respectively. If this continues unabated, the campus will continue spending on wasted energy at a substantial cost of E315 656.37 per annum. In conclusion, the UNISWA Mbabane campus is not using its energy efficiently. The study recommends that UNISWA needs to improve its energy use by reverting to energy efficient appliances and practices in order to reduce cost to the institution. It should also put in place an energy use monitoring system that can quickly identify pit holes in energy use and also conduct a full study on energy efficiency for all its campuses in order to achieve a sustainable energy future for the institution.