An energy savings project aimed at reducing power use and breakdowns at the University of Otago, has shocked its creators after it won two major awards at the Tertiary Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Excellence Awards in Auckland.
As well as winning the excellence in technology innovation award, it won the overall supreme award.
Over the past few years, the programme was introduced in the Mellor Laboratories, Dental School, Information Services Building, School of Business, William James building, St David II and the Lindo Ferguson building, because they were identified for the greatest potential energy savings.
University energy and building controls manager Shane Jenkins said the university had a $12 million energy budget and the programme was helping to reduce energy costs by about 12% per annum.
Energy analytics had enabled the programme to gain an understanding of energy use in some of the university’s major buildings, and not only reduce use and breakdowns, but improve customer service and satisfaction in the buildings.
"To be judged the winner in this category, considering the calibre of the other outstanding finalists, left me truly humbled," Mr Jenkins said.
"What's even more inspiring is that we clinched the supreme award.
"This recognition reaffirms the commitment to innovation at our university, where creativity and forward-thinking are deeply valued.
"To have it acknowledged by other technologists is a moment I'll cherish forever."
He gave project manager Ria van den Berg major credit for the success.
"Without her, the whole thing would have just been another good idea that didn’t come to fruition."
More buildings on the Dunedin campus would be added to the programme, including Te Rangihīroa College, the Eccles building and the Plaza building this year, Mr Jenkins said.
In the future, it was hoped that via the internet, energy analytics could be applied to more university buildings.
