Energy Consumption in Student Hostels of Universiti Sains Malaysia: Energy Audit and Energy Efficiency Awareness

Abstract

Electricity is the main energy source consumed whereby our daily activities are predominantly and increasingly dependent on it. In the developing world where most countries steadily undergo rapid urbanization and population growth, energy consumption has immensely intensified over the last few decades. High energy demand is greatly propelled by consumption especially in residential, commercial, and university buildings. With the growing demands for electricity, increased costs of power and the desire to minimize dependence on energy generated by fossil fuels, initiative for efficient energy consumption particularly in building is given an increasing attention across the nation. Higher education is a growing sector with student numbers increasing every year. This means that the energy consumption of universities is also growing. This paper focuses on energy audit activities conducted in eight student hostel buildings of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to assess the level of total energy consumption. Concurrently, the level of student engagement in sustainable energy consumption practices was evaluated. Furthermore, energy consumption for lighting in each hostel was determined through a survey. The results garnered from the audit were evaluated and feasible alternatives for potential energy saving and conservation measures were consequently identified and recommended to improve energy efficiency in the buildings.