The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is committed to identifying and mitigating energy wastage through systematic energy reviews and audits. These efforts are integral to the university’s broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency and promote environmental sustainability across its campuses.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Building Assessments
In compliance with national regulations, UJ conducts regular energy performance assessments of its buildings. These assessments culminate in the issuance of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which provide a benchmark for energy consumption and identify areas where improvements are necessary. For instance, in November 2022, UJ completed EPC inspection reports for multiple buildings across its campuses, including:
- Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB) Campus: Blocks A-J, Con Cowan Building, Cafeteria, Great Hall, Library, School of Tourism and Hospitality Lecture Halls.
- Auckland Park Kingsway (APK) Campus: A Complex, Main Ring, Sports Hall, Store Complex, Student Centre, Theatre.
- Doornfontein (DFC) Campus: Buxton Street Building, Clinic, Lecture Halls, New Student Centre, Purchasing and Stores, Quadrum.
- Soweto (SWC) Campus: Adelaide Tambo Building, Ellen Khuzwayo Building, Enoch Sontonga Building, Library, TW Khambule Building, Ukhamaba ABD & Admin C.
These EPCs serve as critical tools in pinpointing buildings with high energy consumption, thereby facilitating targeted interventions to reduce energy wastage.
Measurement and Verification (M&V) Processes
UJ employs rigorous Measurement and Verification (M&V) processes to accurately determine energy savings and identify inefficiencies. These processes are grounded in scientific and engineering methodologies, enabling the university to:
- Verify and audit energy efficiency project outcomes.
- Conduct comprehensive energy audits to ascertain cost and energy savings.
- Evaluate renewable and emerging energy technologies.
The M&V team at UJ comprises Certified Energy Managers (CEM) and Certified Measurement and Verification Professionals (CMVP), ensuring adherence to international standards such as the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP).
Role of the Process, Energy & Environmental Technology Station (UJ PEETS)
UJ’s commitment to energy efficiency is further exemplified by the activities of the Process, Energy & Environmental Technology Station (UJ PEETS). UJ PEETS offers a range of services aimed at identifying and reducing energy wastage, including:
- Energy auditing.
- Engineering consultation.
- Process optimisation.
- Environmental impact assessments.
By facilitating interactions between academia, industry, and government, UJ PEETS promotes the development and implementation of energy-efficient technologies and practices.
Annual Reporting and Continuous Improvement
UJ demonstrates transparency and accountability through its annual reporting on energy management. The 2021 Annual Report highlights a decrease in the university’s carbon footprint, attributed to effective energy management practices and the identification of energy wastage areas. The report also details specific focus areas and improvements achieved, underscoring UJ’s dedication to continuous enhancement of its energy efficiency initiatives.
In summary, the University of Johannesburg proactively identifies and addresses energy wastage through comprehensive energy reviews, the implementation of EPCs, robust M&V processes, and the strategic efforts of UJ PEETS. These initiatives reflect the university’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsible energy consumption.
