Carbon reduction through demand-side mitigation strategies for campus buildings at the University of Seoul

In this study, we estimate the potential carbon reduction effects of climate change mitigation options based on demand-side measures in campus buildings with a focus on synergistic effects between strategies, using the University of Seoul, located in Seoul, South Korea, as the target site. We selected demand-side mitigation options based on a review of the university's development strategy literature and the results of workshop-based initiatives on behavioral changes among university members. The options included expanding the installation of solar panels; enhancing insulation performance during the remodeling of old buildings; and reducing heating, cooling, and lighting usage. To estimate the effects of demand-side mitigation options, we compared carbon emissions from campus buildings before and after implementation of each method by calculating end-use energy demands using the City Energy Analyst (CEA) model, a type of Building Energy Model (BEM). At the University of Seoul, it is estimated that approximately 12,038.0 tCO 2eq of carbon is emitted annually. The greatest potential for carbon reduction is associated with demand-side mitigation measures, when the expansion of solar panel installation is combined with behavioral changes aimed at reducing heating, cooling, and lighting usage. In this scenario, annual emissions are estimated to be 9,192.14 tCO₂ eq, reflecting a potential reduction of 20.3%. This is expected to be the most effective combination among the analyzed strategies.