Evaluation of the electrical consumption of an RTO and estimation of its emission reduction potential

Abstract

Given the current global warming context and greenhouse gas obligations for organisations, the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology established a carbon footprint that revealed a high emission related to its electricity consumption within its laboratory research building. As a result, the LIST has set itself the goal of reducing its consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through a variety of sustainable actions. We used the DMAIC method in conjunction with the EN16247 energy audit method to accomplish this. This combination revealed a lack of data on the Belvaux site's electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The proposals for improvement thus focused on three levels of correction and improvement: the implementation of centralized management and measurement, consumption reduction, and the implementation of renewable electricity production systems. In conclusion, thanks to this method we have been able to implement adapted and sustainable improvements to reduce the carbon footprint of this Institute. However, while this approach was sufficient to reduce unnecessary consumption, additional improvements could be considered to make this building environmentally responsible and energy efficient.