Energy Efficiency at Yale
Energy efficiency is a primary goal for Yale University. In order to meet the greenhouse gas reduction goal while the campus continues to expand, efficient practices are implemented in both existing and new buildings. Each energy saving strategy is evaluated to determine the carbon reduction per operating dollar incurred. The strategies with the highest returns are implemented first, to ensure the most efficient planning.
Current energy efficiency initiatives include:
Measures to Match Energy Supply More Closely to Energy Demand
- Rebalance and reduce air change in labs
- Temperature set points
- Off hours set back to HVAC systems
- Recommissioning buildings
- Occupancy sensors
- Lighting retrofits
Measures to Increase Building Envelop Performance
- High-efficiency windows
- High-albedo roofing
- Increased insulation of building envelope
Measures to Increase the Efficiency of Building Systems
- Low-energy lighting
- Heat recovery loops
- Upgrading from steam to hot water heating
- High-efficiency motors
- Enthalpy wheels at lab buildings
- Chilled beams
- Displacement of air systems
Measures to Reduce a Building’s Energy Demand
- Building orientation
- Passive ventilation of air systems
Initiatives within Power Plants and Distribution Systems
- Cogeneration
- Free cooling via plate and frame heat exchangers
- Micro-turbines within steam distribution system
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