Analysis of Major Temporary Electrical Equipment Consumption and Usage Patterns in Educational Buildings: Case Study

Abstract

The energy use patterns of electrical appliances are more difficult to predict than energy use for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) and lighting, as: (1) there are large varieties of electrical equipment (e.g., appliances, vending machines, etc.) in buildings and each serves a different function; thus, their energy consumption patterns are difficult to predict; (2) electrical appliances are scattered across buildings, most are not permanently fixed to a location, and they consume much energy. Appliances are also not centrally controlled, such as HVAC and lighting. Thus, energy consumption patterns are more difficult to predict. In addition, electrical appliances consume significant amounts of energy to influence energy consumption volatility. This case study focuses on understanding the energy consumption patterns of electrical appliances in educational buildings. This research analyzes the electrical appliances and energy consumption data from institutional buildings and the factors that drive energy consumption. The analyses show that: (1) energy consumption patterns are dependent on building characteristics and use; (2) the number of appliances in a building influences the peak electricity consumption; (3) vending machines and fridges consume significant amounts of electricity; it has been proven (by minimum building energy loads) that buildings that have more vending machines have significantly higher minimum loads than no or fewer vending machines; and (4) the energy-saving potential from desktops and monitors rose to 60 kWh during lunchtime and 500 kWh at night.