Energy Audit and Simulated Conservation Opportunities for a Renovated Mixed-Use Academic Building

Abstract

This paper describes an energy audit performed in a 97,760 ft2 (9082 m2) academic building at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The paper describes the building survey and a simulation of the building’s energy use using eQUEST software calibrated with monthly and hourly utility data. Conclusions of the survey identified problems with the building envelope, indoor air quality, and HVAC controls which were promptly addressed. Nine long-term energy conservation opportunities (ECOs) were identified and evaluated. Five ECOs related to lights, envelope, and HVAC were recommended with a total implementation cost of $165k. It is shown that a savings of 23.7% in overall energy usage can be achieved with a payback of less than 8 years. In addition to energy and economic savings, building performance and occupant comfort are expected to improve.