Summary of Lecture 6: Energy Audits
1. Definition and Purpose of Energy Audits
• Energy audits are systematic processes to analyze energy consumption in buildings to:
o Enhance energy efficiency.
o Reduce energy-related costs.
o Identify energy wastage and propose conservation measures.
o Provide a baseline for future comparisons.
2. Importance of Energy Audits in Sustainable Design
• Energy Efficiency: Helps optimize building energy flows.
• Cost Savings: Reduces utility bills by minimizing waste.
• Environmental Impact: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
• Regulatory Compliance: Assists in meeting local energy codes.
• Occupant Comfort: Improves indoor environments.
• Market Value: Increases property attractiveness.
3. Levels of ASHRAE Energy Audits
• Level 1: Walk-Through Analysis:
o Preliminary visual inspection to identify low-cost/no-cost improvements.
o Basic review of energy consumption and operational patterns.
• Level 2: Energy Survey and Analysis:
o Detailed breakdown of energy use.
o Includes system inventory, thermal imaging, and financial analysis.
• Level 3: Investment-Grade Audit:
o Comprehensive analysis with advanced diagnostics and simulations.
o Used for major capital-intensive projects.
4. Techniques and Tools for Energy Audits
• Data Collection:
o Historical utility bills (12-36 months).
o Sub-metering for specific systems.
o Interviews with facility staff.
• Diagnostic Tools:
o Thermographic cameras for detecting heat losses.
o Blower door tests for measuring air leakage.
o Light meters for assessing lighting efficiency.
• Energy Modeling Software:
o Tools like EnergyPlus and eQUEST for detailed simulations.
5. Energy Use Intensity (EUI)
• Key metric for measuring building energy efficiency.
• Expressed as energy consumed per unit area annually.
• Used to benchmark performance and identify inefficiencies.
6. Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)
• Examples include:
o Lighting upgrades (e.g., LEDs, occupancy sensors).
o HVAC system optimization.
o Building envelope improvements (e.g., insulation, sealing).
o Installation of renewable energy systems (solar, wind).
o Water efficiency measures (e.g., low-flow fixtures).
7. Economic Analysis
• Includes metrics like:
o Net Present Value (NPV).
o Payback period.
o Return on Investment (ROI).
• Prioritizes quick wins and high-impact measures.
8. Steps in Conducting Energy Audits
1. Initiation: Define objectives and scope.
2. Preparation: Assemble a team and gather data.
3. Field Survey: On-site inspection of energy systems.
4. Analysis: Benchmarking, load profiling, and diagnostics.
5. Reporting: Document findings and recommend ECMs.
6. Implementation: Execute and monitor the recommended measures.
Lec 5
Definition of Sustainable Design
• Sustainable design integrates environmentally friendly principles to minimize resource
consumption, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce ecological footprints throughout a
building's lifecycle.
2. Integrated Design Process (IDP)
• A collaborative and holistic approach involving architects, engineers, clients, and facility
managers.
• Focus on viewing the building as an interconnected system to maximize efficiency.
• Tools: BIM software and regular stakeholder workshops.
3. Site Selection and Analysis
• Evaluating sites based on environmental, social, and economic criteria.
• Key factors:
o Proximity to public transport and amenities.
o Soil quality and biodiversity preservation.
• Tools: GIS and site survey technologies.
4. Energy Efficiency
• Three-Tier Approach:
1. Basic Building Design: Form, orientation, and materials.
2. Passive Systems: Natural heating/cooling (e.g., Trombe walls, wind catchers).
3. Mechanical Systems: Active HVAC and renewable energy.
• Metrics: Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and U-Value.
5. Renewable Energy Integration
• Types: Solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems.
• Benefits:
o Reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
o Long-term cost savings.
• Metrics: Net-zero potential and payback period.
6. Water Conservation
• Strategies:
o Efficient fixtures (low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets).
o Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems.
• Metrics: Gallons per minute (GPM) and greywater reuse rates.
7. Material Optimization
• Use of eco-friendly materials:
o Recycled content, rapidly renewable resources, and locally sourced materials.
• Benefits:
o Reduced carbon footprint.
o Enhanced building lifecycle.
8. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
• Components:
o Air quality (low VOC materials, proper ventilation).
o Lighting (daylight autonomy).
o Acoustics (noise control and insulation).
• Metrics: VOC levels, daylight factors, and sound transmission class (STC).
9. Innovation and Future-Proofing
• Smart technologies:
o Automated lighting, smart HVAC controls, and energy management systems.
• Future-proofing strategies:
o Modular design, infrastructure readiness, and adaptable spaces.
• Metrics: Adaptability index and lifecycle extension.
