Components of Building Automation Systems & RMIT Sustainability Initiatives

Gartner_2007_005

Figure based on Berthon, 2009

http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/events/cf/ee09/document.cfm?doc_id=10496

Energy

RMIT University’s energy consumption is measured in megajoules (MJ) per year per full-time student, also known as Equivalent Full Time Student Unit (EFTSU).

Between 2006 and 2007, RMIT’s energy consumption was reduced from 10.2 megajoules (MJ) to 10.1 MJ. The saving of 0.1 megajoules – 100,000 joules –coincided with a five per cent increase in full-time student enrolments.

Energy saving initiatives

RMIT strives to continuously reduce its energy usage and has embarked upon a number of immediate and long-term initiatives to cut energy consumption. They include:

  • The appointment of an Energy Manager to work in Property Services, with the aim of measuring and reducing RMIT’s impact on the environment throughout all campuses.
  • The purchase of 15 per cent of GreenPower in January 2008. This will increase to 20 per cent in 2009 and 2010. Read more.
  • Completed energy audits of all major campuses in Victoria
  • Investment in an integrated Building Automation System (BAS) for the City campus, which uses computer-based monitoring to control the mechanical and lighting systems in RMIT buildings, and enables more efficient use of electricity and gas lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Read more about the service upgrade.
  • Conversion of fluorescent lighting to the more energy-efficient T5 lighting and replacement of fluorescent fittings to high-bay lighting in the Bundoora gymnasium.
  • The Property Services Facilities Services team has drafted a proposal that recommends the broadening of the set temperatures of the University’s general office and teaching spaces to conserve energy by requiring less heating in winter and less cooling in summer.
  • Upgrading the central chilled water plant in the city to maximise energy efficiency
  • Improved methods for planning resource reduction activities
  • Participation in Earth Hour in March, 2008. RMIT cut power consumption by 5 per cent to around 2,300kwh during Earth Hour, a global initiative that aims to lower energy use and raise awareness about the steps necessary to combat global warming.