In line with our Chancellor’s vision to minimize energy consumption, the university is committed to advancing its “Sustainable Campus Policy” by emphasizing energy efficiency and cultivating a climate-positive environment. In 2023, the institution has undertaken substantial sustainable investments to achieve these goals. The university’s notable accomplishments in this area are outlined below.
⦁ Efficient Lighting Systems
Highlights
Amrita University has implemented an innovative lighting strategy to promote energy efficiency on campus. By turning off lights in unused rooms and corridors, combined with 100% adoption of sensor-based workspace automation, the university has reduced its carbon footprint while fostering a smart, eco-friendly campus environment.
Decorative and festival lighting usage was considerably limited to reduce energy consumption. This initiative has successfully reduced energy usage by 85%, contributing significantly to the university’s sustainability goals.
Ensuring Energy Efficiency
To ensure efficiency all lights have been replaced with energy-efficient LED bulbs. In 2023, 1,200 LED bulbs were installed in the old building, and 1,000 LED lights were added to newly built spaces.
Motion sensors and timers have been installed in common areas to optimize energy usage. This sensor-based workspace automation has resulted in a 100% reduction in energy consumption in these areas, ensuring that lights and equipment are only used when needed
⦁ Efficient HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Energy Consumption Reduction
HVAC systems are now operated for fewer hours each day to reduce energy consumption. By optimizing usage and focusing on efficiency, the university minimizes energy waste while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
Thermostats are set to moderate levels, such as 24°C, to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while minimizing energy consumption.
Energy Efficiency Plan
Energy-efficient HVAC systems with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) have been installed to optimize energy usage. VFDs adjust the speed of motors based on demand, reducing power consumption and improving overall system efficiency.
Windows are retrofitted with double-glazing or shading devices to enhance energy efficiency. This upgrade has helped to reduce heat loss during colder months and minimize heat gain in warmer months, optimizing indoor temperature control. As a result, the university reduces reliance on HVAC systems, leading to lower energy consumption.
⦁ Computer Labs and Electronics
Energy Consumption Reduction
Students are encouraged to shut down computers after use to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. This simple practice helps minimize power usage and ensures that energy resources are used efficiently across campus.
Computer lab schedules are optimized to minimize idle time and reduce overall usage. By consolidating lab hours, the university ensures that energy consumption is more efficient, lowering the need for continuous operation of computers and other electronic devices.
Energy Efficiency Plan
The university utilizes energy-efficient computers and ensures that power-saving modes are activated when devices are not in use. This reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining optimal performance, and promoting responsible energy usage across all electronic resources.
A centralized energy management system has been implemented to monitor and control energy consumption across the campus. This system enables real-time tracking, optimizing energy usage, and identifying areas for improvement.
⦁ Smart Transportation
Energy Consumption Reduction
The frequency of shuttle buses is reduced during low demand periods to optimize fuel consumption and minimize environmental impact. Solar enabled free shuttle services are provided for in-campus commute.
Carpooling and cycling to campus are actively promoted to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.
Energy Efficiency Plan
Electric and hybrid shuttle vehicles are being introduced to reduce the campus transportation carbon footprint, offering a sustainable alternative to fuel-powered shuttles. Solar-powered EV charging stations have also been installed, promoting sustainable transportation by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy and supporting the university’s commitment to green energy and lower emissions.
⦁ Water Heating
Heated water availability is restricted during off-peak hours to optimize energy use and minimize waste. This approach ensures efficient energy consumption, reducing overall demand while meeting campus needs during peak hours.
Additionally, solar water heaters have been installed to utilize renewable energy, decreasing reliance on conventional energy sources.
⦁ Events and Activities
Events are scheduled during daylight hours to reduce the need for artificial lighting, minimizing energy consumption and lowering the campus’s carbon footprint. This approach maximizes natural light, ensuring an eco-friendly environment.
Additionally, renewable energy sources like solar generators power events, further reducing reliance on conventional energy.
⦁ Building Design
To reduce energy consumption, operational hours for low-use buildings are reduced to optimize energy consumption, minimizing energy waste and supporting sustainability.
For ensuring energy efficiency, buildings are retrofitted with insulation to improve energy performance, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Additionally, reflective paints and green roofs are added to further reduce cooling demand, enhancing energy efficiency and lowering overall energy consumption.
⦁ Renewable Energy
Efforts are focused on encouraging reduced electricity consumption from the grid by promoting energy-saving practices across campus. By increasing awareness and implementing energy-efficient measures, the university aims to lower grid dependence, reduce energy costs, and support its commitment to sustainability through the use of renewable energy sources.
Solar panels are being installed on rooftops to generate clean, renewable energy. This initiative reduces reliance on conventional energy sources, lowers electricity costs, and supports the university’s commitment to sustainability by harnessing the power of the sun to meet campus energy needs.
⦁ Awareness and Automation
A campus-wide energy monitoring and automation system is implemented to track and optimize energy usage in real time. This system helps identify areas for improvement, automatically adjust energy consumption, and raise awareness, ensuring efficient resource management and reinforcing the university’s commitment to sustainability.
Along with this, Amrita conducts various awareness campaigns and events to promote energy conservation. As a part of the National Service Scheme, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham celebrated Energy Conservation Week from November 27th to November 30th, 2023, with a series of engaging and educational activities.
Students participated in a Digital Poster Making competition on November 27th, focused on the theme of energy conservation. A competition was also held for students to write impactful slogans on energy-saving habits
Drawing competitions for students were conducted for Classes 1–5 and Classes 6–12
In alliance with the Amrita Students Debating Society (ASDS), a thought-provoking debate unfolded as a part of the Energy Week organized by NSS on the 28th of November, 2023. The active participation of students not only added vibrancy to the event but also served as an enlightening journey, unveiling the captivating facts about Energy Conservation.
Amrita’s students were presented with a unique chance to engage in a creative pursuit, as they participated in a captivating Ideathon and Hackathon in collaboration with IETE.
Students across diverse departments of Amrita University united in a lively and energetic flashmob, coupled with the artistry of mime, setting the stage for an enchanting welcome event. Amidst the dynamic movements and silent expressions, a powerful message resonated with the hearts and minds of all who witnessed the spectacle.
Report:https://webfiles.amrita.edu/2024/12/energy-conservation-week-report.pdf
⦁ World Bicycle Day Celebrated at Amrita
https://www.amrita.edu/news/nss-ettimadai-world-bicycle-day-fit-india-freedom-rider-cycle-event/
⦁ Energy Conservation Week Observed