ANNOUNCEMENTS
The educational institute under study is looking forward to reducing its electricity consumption through Demand Side Management and effectively sourcing electricity from renewable energy sources. This dissertation is based on a case study which is focused on suggesting effective energy savings opportunities meanwhile providing an energy sourcing option optimized for minimum costing and maximized reliability from renewable sources. A reference of the audit report of a similar facility has been taken for gathering data required for the analysis. The overall consumption and the load profile (Monthly/daily/weekly) will then be used for sizing the grid connected solar power system. The Monthly electricity bills were being analyzed to check total energy consumption, variable, and fixed electricity charges along with maximum demand to which it was found that every month fixed demand charges contributed to more than 50% of the total electricity bill (see annexure) and it might further increase in future since demand charges have also been raised by the Assam Power Distribution Company limited in March 2022. Hence, Demand side management becomes a significant part of the energy management program at the university. Also, the Power Factor in the bill was observed as 0.82 due to which an additional surcharge was being paid every month. Further, an energy audit was being performed for an assessment of total loads and type of loads being used at the facility. Area wise data on electricity appliances used across the facility has been used to define load profile for electricity consumption of the institute. The Demand side management not just helps in reduction in overall electricity demand charges but also reduces the capital expenditure required to install a renewable energy capacity. The project aims to demonstrate energy conservation measures that can be taken up along with adequate approach to replacement of energy efficient lightings and fans along with installation of a solar PV system over the conventional building area inside the campus. Prefeasibility study has been conducted to identify the scope of work and benefits that can be delivered through the project. The expected ROI has been calculated based on Simple payback period for on capital investment represents feasibility of individual measures undertaken for energy efficiency improvement.
The results of this case study can be taken forward to analyze and benchmark energy performance against different buildings which has to same purpose. The solar design has been done based on technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of Assam. Both primary and secondary data sources are being referred for performing the cost benefit analysis of the ECM (Energy conservation Measures) being taken and secondary data is being referred for rooftop solar PV design. The audit report of the facility has been taken as the primary data source and articles from academic and non-academic sources has been considered for approximation.
Keywords: Energy efficiency, Energy Audit, Renewable energy, Solar energy, Irradiation, Economic analysis, GHG emissions.
