Implementation of a methodology to perform an energy audit with academic purpose

This article proposes a standard methodology to implement a detailed energy audit as a tool to quantify the efficiency, executed in four phases: visual inspection, data collection, measurement on the electrical equipment, interpretation of results and analysis and comparison of data with the Ecuadorian Construction Standard NEC-11. The methodology is presented as an academic practice, to teach the engineering student to perform an energy diagnosis in any place or sector where electricity is consumed to encourage an environmental conscience associated with consumption. As part of the proposed method an audit in a Faculty’s engineering laboratory is performed, to adjust the proposed steps and verify their ability to detect the energy consumption, electrical distribution facilities and luminaries’ types. The audit application allowed to effectively determine the possible improvements that can be made to reduce the power consumption by means of capacitor bank installation to regulate the power factor, redistribution and change of lighting, fixed shade elements placement to avoid natural light glare, maintenance planning of electrical installations in poor conditions, and placing an insulator on the main switchboard. This is an example of some simple improvements for reducing electricity consumption and to optimizing the comfort for lab users. This exercise shows that the proposed methodology can quantify energy efficiency and is a good guide to consumption alternatives.