Assessing sustainable measures on a university campus : focusing on energy

Abstract

In recent decades, the world’s energy use increased, and this trend was also experienced by universities, despite their efforts to introduce energy-efficient measures. This project has assessed the sustainable energy efficiency measures taken at the University of Malta, Tal-Qroqq Campus. The methodology included analysis of three-years’ energy consumption data, an on-site technical survey and a quantitative questionnaire directed to students and key energy efficiency personnel. Results showed that although energy efficiency measures are being implemented, the total energy consumption has increased over the three-year analysis period. Lighting resulted to be the most energy consuming source rather than space cooling. Many of the energy efficient measures in the buildings have been implemented in a piecemeal manner, due to funding issues. Natural lighting is not being used to its full potential and there is still a large cohort of old and inefficient air-conditioning units in operation. Most windows are currently single glazed with no solar coating protection, to reduce solar overheating. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic did not result in a significant reduction on the buildings’ energy consumption, indicating a limit as to how much energy can be saved, given the present non-optimal operational schedule. High total volatile organic compound readings were recorded in some areas due to the increase in indoor use of sanitizers (due to COVID-19), especially in the Gateway building, which has been converted to a hospital extension facility. Lack of student awareness on the implemented energy efficient measures and the university’s’ ‘Strategic Plan 2020-2025’ resulted from the quantitative survey. The majority of respondents voted positively for the natural lighting ambience in the ICT building, in contrary to the Gateway and Library buildings. This dissertation provides tangible input to the University’s efforts to become less carbon intensive, in line with its Strategic Plan 2020-2025, for a more environmentally friendly campus.