13.2 – Low-Carbon Energy Use

13.2.1 – Low-Carbon Energy Tracking

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has established robust systems to measure and maximize low-carbon energy use across campus, integrating energy-efficient appliances and equipment in buildings, streets, laboratories, and beyond. Through meticulous tracking of low-carbon energy consumption university-wide, we are committed to achieving impactful reductions in carbon emissions and leading by example in sustainable energy management.

 Low Carbon Appliances and Energy Efficiency at UKM

1. Energy Efficient in Campus Buildings

UKM adheres to low-carbon energy tracking by implementing comprehensive energy-efficient upgrades across campus. These initiatives include replacing conventional lighting with high-efficiency LED systems in buildings and streetlights, deploying smart HVAC systems, integrating renewable energy sources, and enhancing insulation. This approach has led to significant reductions in energy consumption, carbon emissions, and operational costs, all while maintaining high standards of visibility and safety. By systematically tracking and managing low-carbon energy use, UKM ensures that each sustainable upgrade contributes directly to its overarching goals of minimising environmental impact and aligning with global sustainability standards. These efforts position UKM as a leader in creating an eco-friendly, future-ready educational environment that prioritizes a greener, healthier campus for current and future generations. UKM has transformed campus buildings and street lighting by replacing conventional fixtures with high-efficiency LED lighting, achieving substantial reductions in energy consumption while enhancing visibility and safety. This shift to energy-efficient lighting underscores UKM commitment to a sustainable, eco-friendly campus and is a key component of its ongoing low-carbon energy tracking and reduction initiatives. 

• Total Energy Efficient LEDs: 615
• Total Conventional LEDs: 365
•  Percentage of EnergyEfficient LEDs: 62.8%

2. Use of Eco-friendly Air Conditioner / Energy-efficient Appliances are A/C with Inverter Technology

UKM has advanced its low-carbon energy tracking initiatives by upgrading campus buildings with inverter technology air conditioners. These units optimise energy consumption by adjusting power output in real-time, based on the precise cooling needs of each space. Unlike traditional systems that operate at fixed speeds, inverter air conditioners automatically modulate energy use, ensuring efficient operation and minimising energy waste. This technology upgrade aligns with UKM commitment to sustainability and its dedication to tracking and reducing energy consumption across campus. By adopting inverter-based systems, UKM not only reduces its overall carbon footprint but also supports the university’s goal of creating a sustainable campus environment. This enhancement highlights UKM’s proactive steps in integrating smart, low-carbon solutions that contribute to energy efficiency and reflect its leadership in sustainable campus management.

• Total EnergyEfficient Air Conditioners: 268  
• Total Conventional Air Conditioners: 297  
• Percentage of EnergyEfficient Air Conditioners: 47.43%

3. Energy Saving Computers

UKM prioritizes low-carbon energy tracking by standardizing the use of ENERGY STAR-certified computers and advocating for energy-efficient notebooks in place of traditional desktop setups. ENERGY STAR-certified devices meet strict energy efficiency guidelines, consuming significantly less power during operation and standby modes. By implementing these devices across campus, UKM directly reduces power consumption and supports a sustainable, low-carbon environment.

The shift to energy-efficient notebooks further complements UKM broader initiatives to optimize campus energy use, as notebooks require less power and cooling than desktops. This transition aligns with UKM ongoing upgrades to campus buildings for enhanced energy efficiency, integrating technology choices that lower the university’s overall carbon footprint. Through these initiatives, UKM not only achieves measurable reductions in energy use but also reinforces its leadership in sustainable practices, providing a model for eco-conscious technological integration in educational institutions.

• Total Energy Efficient Computers: 3,648  
• Total Conventional Computers: 762  
• Percentage of Energy Efficient Computers: 82.72%

4. Energy Meter Readers

To advance low-carbon energy tracking, UKM has installed energy meter readers in every campus building, enabling real-time monitoring of energy usage and immediate detection of electrical leakage. These energy meters allow UKM to gain precise insights into energy consumption patterns, pinpoint inefficiencies, and quickly address issues that could lead to unnecessary power waste. By identifying and eliminating electrical leaks, UKM minimizes wasted energy, further reducing its carbon footprint. This initiative supports UKM commitment to enhancing energy efficiency across all facilities, aligning with its broader goals of sustainable campus management. The data collected through these meters is integral to UKM energy management strategy, allowing the university to track and analyze consumption trends and make informed decisions on energy-saving upgrades. The installation of energy meter readers underscores UKM proactive approach to low-carbon energy tracking, reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable operations and setting an example for other institutions aiming to achieve higher energy efficiency standards.

5. Temperature Sensors for Energy Monitoring 

UKM has advanced its low-carbon energy tracking with an IoT-enabled air quality monitoring system across campus buildings. Equipped with power meters and temperature and humidity sensors, this system provides real-time data on environmental conditions, allowing UKM to optimize HVAC use and reduce energy consumption effectively. By adjusting climate control based on precise, real-time data, UKM enhances energy efficiency without compromising indoor air quality, underscoring its commitment to sustainable campus management and smart, eco-friendly operations.