Harnessing solar energy to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and save money.
Summary:
The use of solar energy is a multi-faceted subject. I will explore the benefits and downsides of solar hot water, and its usefulness to our society and to Thompson Rivers University. Through monitoring of the flat plate solar hot water system installed on three Thompson Rivers University buildings, I will prove the economic feasibility of the system, and its value to society in removing our dependence on fossil fuels.
Purpose, Goals, Objectives:
I will prove the financial and social responsibility the university has taken by installing the solar hot water system by comparing the demand with supply data. Recently I was informed that the university had installed flat plate solar hot water system on TRU building roofs; I saw an opportunity to prove the value of solar power. I found there are two main types of solar hot water systems: Flat plate, evacuated tube systems. Both systems have different pros and cons. The plate model is cheaper to install and maintain whereas the evacuated tube system is more effective but has a higher initial cost. As the flat plate system has been installed here at TRU all my data will come from this source. If possible, I will be working with the Optimum Air company that installed the system, to ensure that all data collected is recorded correctly and no damage will be done to the system. This will be done with the use of flow meter on the potable water and temp readings on out flowing water
Data collection & Dissemination:
With bi-weekly monitoring of flow meter and thermometer, I will collect and record data using Excel in a clear and organized manner. I will post the data collected bi-weekly on a blog.
Method:
Using the floor plans of old main, the current 2006 British Columbia Building Code and resources from the American Society of Plumbers, I will establish the demand of the building. I will examine the current gas hot water system to compare the supply actually given with my results of the demand to verify my work. Once all data is collected I will directly compare it with the demand on the building. This will give the energy and a cost savings total received by the university. With these savings I will give an estimate of the amount of time the system will pay for itself. Also I will see if we can reduce the need for the fossil fuel system currently in use for all hot water. In a single family home, “annual energy reductions of over 200 Megawatts.” (EMRC 1991 pg iv) can be seen.
Related information:
The overall value to society might only one small step, but anything that removes our dependence on fossil fuels is a socially responsible action. The Environment Advisory Committee here at TRU has strategic plan policy in place to get us to carbon neutral. This could lead to similar projects on different buildings around campus. Government documents state that “A typical solar hot water system will reduce annual energy costs by 40-50%.” (NRC 2000 pg3) They also state that “Domestic water heating contributes approximately 6 million tones CO2 each year toward Canada’s greenhouse emissions.” (NRC 2000 pg3) Government grants are available as well as monies from the carbon tax given to the University for such upgrades.
