A study of energy demand and consumption in University of Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Efficient energy supply to academic institution is necessary for the successful delivery of its primary mandate of teaching, research and community service. Hence, there is need to monitor and control the energy consumption pattern in a university environment. In this study, a preliminary energy audit was conducted over 24 identified buildings at the main campus of University of Abuja, Nigeria to assess pattern of electricity consumption and efficiency in the University. The breakdown of the energy loads revealed that cooling systems (Air conditioning-33%, Central Air Conditioning-2%, Fans-13%), and Lighting 28% accounted for 76% of the total energy demand followed by office equipment (Desk top-11%, Photocopier-9%, Refrigerator-2%) and least being Lap top and Television accounting for 1% each. These on the overall gave the total energy demand of 1675.365KW and the equivalent total annual energy consumption of 1563491kWh (₦ 55,534,481.96). The senate building being the administrative building has the highest energy demand of 278.08KW (17%), followed by main library which is the second largest building in the university with energy demand of 206.615kW (12%), while among the academic buildings, the Faculty of Science has the highest energy demand of 174.285 kW (10%), followed by Faculty of Art with energy demand of 142.815 kW (9%). About 154854kWh and the sum of ₦ 5,534,481.96 would have been saved per annum if the 40W bulbs are replaced with a more energy efficient 25W bulbs in all the buildings assessed.