The UCD community is working hard to reach our 2020 energy efficiency targets, which require a 33% improvement in energy efficiency.
Our official 2018 results are due to be published next month by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Early indications are good, however the period between now and the end of 2020 is crucial to our success.
Night-load or “baseload” electricity usage (electricity used when buildings are not in use) is our main target, however we would also like to raise more awareness of how you can reduce energy usage associated with heating.
Heat loss through windows left open at night and at weekends can be an issue, therefore we ask that you check windows in offices and classrooms before you leave each evening. This means that less energy is needed to heat buildings each morning. We also encourage you to use the thermostatic radiator values (TRVs) where installed in offices. TRVs allow the temperature in the room to be controlled. If your office is getting too warm, please twist the TRV to a lower setting, setting 3 or 4 is the optimum “ECO setting” and generally keeps the temperature at an appropriate level and avoids overheating.
In terms of electricity usage, the key message is to Switch-off devices when not being used – no matter how small or seemingly insignificant the usage appears to be, with a University of UCD’s size, it all adds up!
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️💚🇮🇪
UCD Energy Unit