Abstract

University energy consumption is becoming increasingly important both financially and environmentally. Indeed, government grant allocation now directly relates to environmental performance and it is essential that university spending on energy is reduced, without reducing the useful output or services offered by a well-regarded educational establishment, such as the University of Sheffield. Over the last four years, the University’s Estates and Facilities Management have collected energy data from a selection of five buildings: Crookesmoor Building, Humanities Research Institute, Northgate House, Graduate Research Centre and Regent Court. In this study, the five university buildings’ energy data is compiled and analysed in relation to energy benchmarks. Additionally, time-series analysis, building specification surveys, and comprehensive building classification were carried out. Finally, recommendations were made in terms of the buildings that offer most potential for improved energy savings in the near future. The findings indicated that, aside from a few exceptions, the buildings perform poorly in terms of gas consumption, whereas electricity consumption is generally acceptable. Moreover, gas consumption could be most significantly reduced, although improved heating management could be applied to all buildings. Electricity consumption is generally more acceptable, although scope for improvement remains, particularly in buildings with extensive IT facilities.

Keywords: Buildings; Sheffield university; Energy performances; Crookesmoor building