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Date : November 23, 2023
Prepared by : Amrita School of Sustainable Futures

Introduction

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is dedicated to reducing its energy footprint by upgrading existing buildings to meet higher energy efficiency standards. This plan outlines our approach to retrofitting and upgrading campus facilities to align with sustainability goals and improve overall operational efficiency. Through this initiative, we aim to significantly reduce energy consumption, decrease carbon emissions, and create a comfortable environment for our students and staff. 

Goals and Objectives

The primary objectives of this energy efficiency upgrade plan are: 

  • To reduce overall energy consumption by 25% in upgraded buildings by 2030. 
  • To enhance the comfort and health of campus facilities through better lighting, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. 
  • To serve as a model for sustainable building practices in higher education. 

Key Areas of Focus

The plan focuses on the following building efficiency measures: 

  1. Energy-Efficient Lighting and Controls
  2. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Optimization
  3. Building Insulation and Envelope Improvements
  4. Renewable Energy Integration
  5. Water Conservation and Management

Action Plan

 Energy-Efficient Lighting and Controls

  • Replace Outdated Lighting Systems
    Replace traditional lighting with energy-efficient LED lighting across all campus buildings to reduce power usage and maintenance costs. 
  • Timeline: Complete in 12 months. 
  • Expected Impact: 40% reduction in lighting energy use. 
  • Install Motion Sensors and Timers   
    Integrate motion sensors and automated timers in classrooms, corridors, and restrooms to control lighting based on occupancy. 
  • Timeline: 6 months. 
  • Expected Impact: 25% reduction in lighting usage through automation.

 HVAC Optimization

  • Upgrade HVAC Systems
    Replace older, inefficient HVAC systems with modern, energy-efficient units to optimize heating and cooling in buildings. 
  • Timeline: Over the next 18 months. 
  • Expected Impact: 20-30% reduction in energy use related to HVAC.
  • Introduce Smart Thermostats and Zoning Controls
    Install programmable thermostats and implement zoning systems to regulate temperature based on occupancy and time of day. 
  • Timeline: 6 months. 
  • Expected Impact: Further 15% reduction in HVAC-related energy consumption.
  • Regular Maintenance   
    Schedule regular maintenance of HVAC systems to ensure optimal performance and minimize energy waste due to equipment wear and tear. 
  • Timeline: Quarterly maintenance checks. 
  • Expected Impact: Consistent energy savings of 10-15%. 

 Building Insulation and Envelope Improvements

  • Enhance Insulation in Walls, Windows, and Roofs
    Install high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows, and reflective roofing materials to improve thermal performance. 
  • Timeline: Phased upgrades over the next 2 years. 
  • Expected Impact: 20% reduction in energy needed for heating and cooling. 
  • Seal Air Leaks   
    Conduct air leak inspections and seal windows, doors, and other gaps to prevent energy loss. 
  • Timeline: Immediate, with follow-ups as needed. 
  • Expected Impact: Improved thermal retention, reducing energy use by up to 10%.

 Renewable Energy Integration

  • Solar Panel Installation   
  • Expand the use of rooftop solar panels to reduce dependence on grid electricity and generate clean energy on-site. 
  • Timeline: Complete installations within 3 years. 
  •  Expected Impact: 15-20% reduction in reliance on non-renewable energy
  • Implement Solar Water Heating   
  • Install solar water heaters in dormitories and dining facilities to reduce electricity consumption for water heating. 
  • Timeline: Within 2 years. 
  • Expected Impact: 30% reduction in energy used for water heating. 

 Water Conservation and Management

  • Install Low-Flow Fixtures   
    Introduce low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads to reduce water and energy use in buildings. 
  • Timeline: 1 year. 
  • Expected Impact: 20% reduction in water usage and reduced energy needed for water heating. 
  • Rainwater Harvesting   
    Expand rainwater harvesting systems on rooftops to capture and store water for irrigation and other non-potable uses. 
  • Timeline: Complete in 2 years. 
  •  Expected Impact: Reduced water demand and conservation of energy associated with water pumping. 

Monitoring and Evaluation

To ensure the success of these initiatives, we will establish an Energy Efficiency Monitoring Team responsible for: 

  • Tracking: Monitoring energy savings in each building through smart metering. 
  • Regular Reporting: Generating quarterly reports to assess energy usage reductions. 
  • Evaluation: Reviewing progress annually to make necessary adjustments and improvements. 

Expected Outcomes

By upgrading campus buildings to higher energy efficiency standards, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham expects the following outcomes: 

  •  A 25% reduction in overall energy consumption by 2030 in upgraded buildings. 
  • A decrease in operational costs through reduced energy expenditures. 
  • A healthier and more sustainable environment for campus occupants. 
  • Progress toward the university’s long-term carbon reduction goals. 
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