Seoul National University's Energy Consumption and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Characteristics in Preparation for the 2050 Carbon Neutrality Transition and the 2030 NDC

Abstract

In this study, the characteristics of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions at Seoul National University (SNU) were presented, and Energy·Greenhouse Gas Balance Model of University Campus was proposed based on this analysis. Additionally, the conditions and features required to achieve SNU's 2030 National Determined Contribution (NDC) goals in the building sector and aim for a carbon-neutral campus by 2050 were examined. The Energy·Greenhouse Gas Balance Model of University Campus is expected to be beneficial for preparing nationwide universities for the transition to carbon-neutral campuses. As of 2021, SNU emitted approximately 141 kilotons of CO<sub>2eq.</sub>, with a greenhouse gas emission ratio of around 8:2 for electricity and gas usage. The total energy consumption at SNU was 809 GWh (69,600 TOE), considering conversion losses, and the electricity usage was 659 GWh. The actual energy consumption on the SNU campus included 247 GWh of electricity and 151 GWh of gas and petroleum usage. Energy consumption in SNU, particularly in engineering and science research facilities, accounted for 46% of the overall energy consumption, emphasizing the need for greenhouse gas reduction through understanding the energy usage characteristics of these facilities. To achieve SNU's goals of reaching the 2030 NDC building sector targets and a carbon-neutral campus by 2050, it is crucial not only to enhance overall energy efficiency and manage total energy consumption but also to decarbonize the electricity used at SNU.