Energy wastage identification
Nazarbayev University recognizes that effective energy management begins with a deep understanding of where and how energy is used, and more importantly, where it is wasted. In this context, the university undertakes regular and detailed energy reviews as a critical part of its sustainability and operational efficiency strategy.
The university campus encompasses a diverse range of building types, including research-intensive laboratories, educational spaces, residential housing, administrative offices, and sports facilities. These buildings vary in age, purpose, and infrastructure complexity, which can contribute to inconsistent energy performance. As such, it is essential to periodically evaluate energy use patterns and infrastructure conditions to detect inefficiencies.
In 2024, a full-scale, campus-wide energy audit was conducted by the certified engineering consultancy TOO “EnergoExpert & K.” This audit built upon previous reviews and introduced enhanced assessment techniques, including real-time metering, thermal imaging, and user pattern analysis. By combining technical diagnostics with digital tracking and user behavior evaluation, NU was able to build a clear picture of where energy losses were occurring and prioritize actions accordingly.
These reviews utilize technical diagnostics and behavioral analysis to evaluate energy inefficiency from both infrastructure and usage perspectives. Data from these reviews directly inform the university’s energy efficiency roadmap for 2024–2030.
The university campus encompasses a diverse range of building types, including research-intensive laboratories, educational spaces, residential housing, administrative offices, and sports facilities. These buildings vary in age, purpose, and infrastructure complexity, which can contribute to inconsistent energy performance. As such, it is essential to periodically evaluate energy use patterns and infrastructure conditions to detect inefficiencies.
In 2024, a full-scale, campus-wide energy audit was conducted by the certified engineering consultancy TOO “EnergoExpert & K.” This audit built upon previous reviews and introduced enhanced assessment techniques, including real-time metering, thermal imaging, and user pattern analysis. By combining technical diagnostics with digital tracking and user behavior evaluation, NU was able to build a clear picture of where energy losses were occurring and prioritize actions accordingly.
These reviews utilize technical diagnostics and behavioral analysis to evaluate energy inefficiency from both infrastructure and usage perspectives. Data from these reviews directly inform the university’s energy efficiency roadmap for 2024–2030.
Monthly Electricity Consumption Analysis (2024)
Energy Reviews and Identification of Waste
Issues Identified and Interventions
Month
January
4,121,907
3,919,513
July
August
3,745,764
4,683,175
February
March
4,343,905
3,210,108
September
October
3,210,108
3,580,927
April
November
2,104,113
3,580,927
May
December
4,991,109
3,617,743
45,109,299
Total
June
Consumption (kWh)
Month
Consumption (kWh)
The analysis shows that electricity consumption at the Nazarbayev University campus is closely linked to seasonal temperature changes in Astana. Winter months are characterized by higher consumption due to the need for heating, while during transitional periods and summer, consumption decreases or remains stable. Overall, the consumption pattern reflects an adaptation to the region’s climatic conditions and the specific operational characteristics of the university.
Thermal loss in older buildings
Outdated fluorescent lighting
Constant lighting in shared spaces
Corrective Action Taken
Issue Identified
Non-zoned HVAC operation
No smart monitoring in some facilities
Insulation improvements and reflective window films applied
Replacement with LED and motion sensors underway
Installation of programmable thermostats and zonal controls
Motion-based automation introduced in restrooms and corridors
Phased rollout of digital metering and integration with Power BI
Tools and Technologies Used
The Facility Construction Directorate leads all audit processes and follow-up planning. Energy review findings are integrated into the long-term Energy Efficiency Plan and capital investment proposals. The university also schedules annual mini-audits and monthly data reviews to maintain continuous oversight.
Oversight and Follow-up
- Thermal imaging of buildings to detect heat loss
- Load assessments on electrical panels and HVAC zones
- User behavior surveys for identifying unmanaged consumption patterns