Energy management is all about the effective and efficient use of resources, so Facilities Management conducts a number of energy audits and technical studies with the intention of achieving real savings in energy costs. An energy audit is a periodic examination of an energy system (or part of a system), to ensure that the most appropriate sources of energy are employed and that this energy is used as efficiently as possible.
Simply speaking, strategic areas targeted to improve energy conservation include:
- changing or improving staff and student habits
- monitoring of power and lighting levels
- assessing usage of cooling and heating systems
An Energy Management Working Party has been established with the intention of implementing the following objectives:
- to conduct energy audits
- to formulate policy on energy management at QUT
- to direct activities as are determined consistent with these policies
- to maintain under review energy performance of University properties
- to issue or have issued various reports on energy management
By pursuing these objectives, the Energy Management Working Party can offer the University community the best possible environment for teaching and learning, while reducing energy consumption and costs.
Members of the university community may contribute to reducing energy costs by adopting a few simple practices, such as:
- ensuring external doors and windows are closed
- turning off lights when not in use
- purchsing energy efficient equipment
- running cooling/heating systems only in areas where staff are working
Any suggestions on energy savings are most welcome, and can be forwarded to the Energy Management Working Party on extension 85934, or by e-mail to go.woods@qut.edu.au