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.