Energy
We have been investing in energy management since 2005. Our commitment to innovation means we easily comply with the QLD Clean Energy Act 2008.
Read more about energy management at QUT (PDF file, 80.48 KB)
Buildings and precinct efficiency
We aim to improve the energy efficiency of our buildings and their operation. As a learning organisation we model then trial approaches to uncover how to best implement energy efficiency improving technology. Our Creative Industries Precinct and Kelvin Grove Library are recent examples of how we have done this.
Kelvin Grove Library
As part of the library's refurbishment planning, thermal energy modelling was used to identify how to reduce internal temperature fluctuations which increase air conditioning and energy demand. Analysis of the results proved to show opportunities that would improve the building’s efficiency.
Kelvin Grove Library energy efficiency report (PDF file, 118.38 KB)
Creative Industries Precinct
Using the Creative Industries Precinct as a ‘Test Site’ we have successfully trialled:
- air-conditioning push button activation controls
- chiller optimisation and global temperature reset
- lighting motion detection controls
- reducing the operation of teaching space air conditioning, with rundown timers set to 2 instead of 3 hours.
The results were so positive we extended them across our campuses.
A number of energy initiatives are continuing to be trialled and tested in Kelvin Grove Creative Industries.
Creative Industries Precinct electrical consumption graph (PDF file, 126.73 KB)
Science and Engineering Centre
On-site energy production is provided by both the tri-generation plant and solar panels.
The trigeneration plant is expected to produces 1,394,473kWhr/yr of electricity, reducing the maximum peak energy demand in the building by 33%. It will have a relatively lower carbon footprint as it is powered by gas.
Solar panels are creating the energy to drive high tech art expressing science and technology designed by Creative Industries students.
The new Science and Engineering Centre, once complete, will have installed approx 1000 panels, generating 200kw of PV.
More information at the Science and Engineering Centre space and change wiki
Current projects
Lights off when no one's home
Motion-sensor lighting control systems have been installed in small to medium lecture theatres and meeting rooms, where lighting was regularly left on after individuals had departed. Once the room is unoccupied for 10-15 minutes, the motion-sensor lighting controls automatically turn off any lights. Individuals also have control of the lighting through a main switch near the doors.
Turning out the lights report (PDF file, 23.74 KB)
Air conditioning - only on when you're in
We are rolling out the installation of a push button activation system throughout teaching and office areas. Air conditioning will now start only if it is manually activated, and will turn off automatically at the end of a scheduled time period. This is especially effective in areas unoccupied during semester breaks. Previously, air conditioning was activated automatically at a specified time, regardless of whether the area was occupied.
Air conditioning report (PDF file, 23.22 KB)
Cost-effective cooling
Air-cooled chillers installed in S Block at Gardens Point are approximately 34% more efficient than previous chillers and will save 4,100 kL of water per annum. The project will have a payback period of less than 12 years. The new chillers will be monitored over the next 12 months and regularly tuned to maximise the energy efficiency of the system.
Cost effective cooling report (PDF file, 21.45 KB)
S block upgrades on levels 3 to 8 include:
- energy efficient lighting
- motion-sensor lighting controls
- improved air conditioning zoning and controls
- fine tuning overall building to maximise energy efficiency.
Tuning and calibration
Our building management system, which controls air conditioning and lighting across all campuses, has generated ongoing energy savings through consistent tuning and recalibration.
Tuning and calibration report (PDF file, 23.33 KB)
Tenancy metering
We meter all tenancies at Gardens Point campus, which are read manually. Over the next 12 months, we will be upgrading the meters to automatically record consumption through the database.
Previous projects
Our previous energy conservation initiatives include:
Rapid hand dryers
We piloted energy efficient hand dryers in high usage toilets, which dry hands twice as fast using half the energy of current models.
Chilled water system air and dirt separators
We trialled two of these systems, one at S Block Gardens Point and one at IHBI, Kelvin Grove. The system works by removing air and dirt particles from a chilled water system to improve efficiency by around 5%. We also benefit by improving the life expectancy of the chilled water system through reduced corrosion and dirt build up.
Electricity metering
We monitor our building's electricity usage with private meters. Where practical, meters have been installed on each transformer, mechanical, light and power, and essential supplies to the building.
Lighting systems
Lighting consumes around 25-30% of QUT's total electrical load, so our busiest buildings including the libraries, are being retrofitted with energy efficient lighting systems. Motion-sensor lighting control systems have been rolled out in theatres, teaching spaces and meeting rooms.
For more information on our previous or current projects, contact the Sustainability Office.
