Using energy profiles to identify university energy reduction opportunities

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to outline efforts at the University of Johannesburg, a large metropolitan university in Gauteng province, to examine energy efficiency within the context of the green campus movement, through the analysis of electricity consumption patterns. The study is particularly relevant in light of the cumulative 230 per cent increase in electricity costs between 2008 and 2014 in South Africa that has forced institutions of higher education to seek ways to reduce energy consumption. Design/Methodology/Approach – A quantitative research design was adopted for the analysis of municipal electricity consumption records using a case study approach to identify trends and patterns in consumption. The largest campus of the University of Johannesburg, which is currently one of the largest residential universities in South Africa, was selected as a case study. Average diurnal consumption profiles were plotted according to phases of the academic calendar, distinguished by specific periods of active teaching and research (in-session); study breaks, examinations and administration (out-of-session); and recesses. Average profiles per phase of the academic calendar were constructed from the hourly electricity consumption and power records using ExcelTM pivot tables and charts. Findings – It was found that the academic calendar has profound effects on energy consumption by controlling the level of activity. Diurnal maximum consumption corresponds to core working hours, peaking at an average of 2,500 kWh during “in-session” periods, 2,250 kWh during “out-of-session” periods and 2,100 kWh during recess. A high base load was evident throughout the year (between 1,300 and 1,650 kWh), mainly attributed to heating and cooling. By switching off the 350 kW chiller plant on weekdays, a 9 per cent electricity reduction could be achieved during out-of-session and recess periods. Similarly, during in-session periods, a 6 per cent reduction could be achieved. Practical implications – Key strategies and recommendations are presented to stimulate energy efficiency implementation within the institution. Originality Value – Coding of consumption profiles against the academic calendar has not been previously done in relation to an academic institution. The profiles were used to establish the influence of the academic calendar on electricity consumption, which along with our own observation were used to identify specific consumption reduction opportunities worth pursuing.

Promoting energy efficiency in a South African university

“…The institution is flagged as a 'high energy user' by the local authority, indicating that in the future it will be forced to implement energy reduction targets or endure financial penalties. Recognising this, the university committed itself in 2012 to achieving a 7% consumption reduction by 2013 [3]. This study explored the process through which the university set about achieving this target and records the lessons it learnt along the way.…”

“…South African universities are, then, seldom in a position to implement DSM, even should funds be available, as pressure to channel such funds to other functions is immense. In such a context, it seems that a way forward for them is to focus on the pragmatic benefit of cost reduction, to enable savings on the utility bill to be redirected to the core mission of teaching and research [3]. Although energy-efficient campuses are not common in South Africa, where attempts have been made, the focus has been on technical interventions to reduce consumption (e.g.…”

“…The price of electricity in South Africa has increased by over 200% between 2008 and 2014, so that universities face escalating energy costs, at a time when their operating budgets face multiple demands and opportunities to increase income are few. In addition, South Africa's main energy supply company, Eskom, is unable to keep up with demand and rolling blackouts (known locally as load shedding) often ensue [3]. Such losses of electricity supply are hugely disruptive and costly.…”

Toward energy efficiency measures for design of the IDB-funded integrated classroom building in Universitas Negeri Malang

“…The data of energy profiles can also be used to investigate some alternatives for reducing the energy use in buildings. Building Energy Management System (BEMS) can give the building users and operating management to develop some retrofitting approaches in measuring energy use in buildings [10,11]. These BEMS can be collectively combined with current rooms HVAC technologies and other efficiency methods, such as building insulation or even with the measures of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from building construction.…”

Dataset on the patterns of electricity consumption in public universities in southwestern Nigeria

“… The data provided will assist the government and the management of public universities in result-oriented planning, budgeting, and decision-making [4] . The provision of this data will propel the achievement of the sustainable campus environment [5] , [6] , [7] , [8] . …”