ENERGY CONSUMPTION PATTERNS AND CONSERVATION OPPORTUNITIES IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: CASE STUDY OF AN ENERGY AUDIT OF BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI

This study conducts a comprehensive energy audit of Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, Nigeria to evaluate the university's energy consumption patterns and identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements. The audit assesses electricity usage cutting across lighting, heating, cooling, and equipment efficiency across the university's facilities. Key findings reveal a total energy demand of 4794 kW with the breakdown as follows: lighting accounted for 7 percent (335.58 kW), ventilation for 52 percent (2493.88 kW), automatic voltage regulators for 4 percent (191.76 kW), and plug loads for 37 percent (1772.78 kW). A significant observation was the labor market's contribution of 497.25 kW, approximately 28 percent of the total plug load. In 2021 the university spent 52,279,149 (33,214.20 USD at an exchange rate of 1574 per USD) on 168,306 liters of diesel and 23,328 liters of petrol for generators, and electricity costs amounted to 150,653,304.71 (95,713.66 USD). A notable spike in electricity consumption was observed in September 2021, at 3289.68 percent higher than average. The audit identifies high energy-consuming appliances, evaluates energy management opportunities, and explores new technologies for energy efficiency. Key recommendations include transitioning to LED lighting, optimizing plug load management, and considering alternative energy sources like solar power. Implementing these measures could save up to 18 percent of the university's total energy demand and significantly reduce operational costs. The findings highlight significant potential for savings through the adoption of efficient appliances and regular maintenance, as well as the importance of accurate repair cost tracking for diesel and petrol generators to support cost reduction strategies. By implementing the recommendations, the university aims to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainable practices, setting a benchmark for other institutions.