Charles Sturt University – Energy Performance Contract (EPC Stage 1)
people provide 24/7 engineering support
saving pa by upskilling employees to self-deliver specific tasks
anticipated saving to client by increasing self-delivery of reactive work
m² covered in terminals 1-5 and the train station
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In this case study
// Challenge
highlights
- Cost savings: $176,831/year
- Electricity savings: 813,548 kWh/year
- Natural gas savings: 4,106 GJ/year
- Water savings: 740 kL/year
- GHG reduction: 1,077 tonnes CO2-e/year
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Overview
Charles Sturt University (CSU) engaged Conservia to deliver an Energy Performance Contract (EPC) across its Bathurst and Wagga Wagga campuses, contributing to CSU’s recognition as Australia’s first carbon neutral university under the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS). Stage 1 focused on audit, needs analysis, measurement & verification (M&V) to quantify energy saving targets, optimisation of existing systems as well as design and installation of new energy and water conservation measures across 17 buildings, including libraries, administration offices, laboratories, and student accommodation.
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Solution
Conservia implemented a broad range of Energy and Water Conservation Measures (ECMs and WCMs) to reduce energy consumption and enhance operational efficiency.
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Key Measures:
Conservia has achieved and maintained a ~30% reduction in overall electricity consumption. This has been achieved by implementing a number of bespoke Building Optimisation Advisory solutions:
- Installation of a new Building Management System (BMS) with advanced occupancy based control strategies
- AHU optimisation (air-aVariable Speed Drives (VSDs) on AHU fans, chilled and condenser water pumps, and cooling tower fansside and water-side)
- Modification of constant volume HVAC systems to variable volume to reduce reheating
- Demand-based ventilation using CO2 sensors and occupancy-based lighting and HVAC controls
- Integration of VRV air conditioning system controls with high level interface controls
- BMS fine-tuning with optimum start/stop sequences and temperature resets
- Installation of high-efficiency T5 lighting, LED down lights and external flood lights with occupancy control
- Solar hot water preheating systems
- Flow restrictors on taps for improved water efficiency
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Results
Energy, Gas and Water Savings:
| Resource | Annual Savings | % of Total Savings | % Over Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | 813,548 kWh/year | 14% | 3.6% |
| Natural Gas | 4,106 GJ/year | 30% | 93% |
| Water | 740 kL/year | 16% | 3.6% |
Financial Outcome:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | ~$1,100,000 |
| Guaranteed Cost Savings | ~$157,108/year |
| Achieved Cost Savings | ~$176,831/year |
| Savings Over Guarantee | $19,723 (12.6%) |
| Simple Payback Period | 7 years |
Environmental Outcome:
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduced: 1,077 tonnes CO2-e/year
