Lighting
- When lighting controlled by sensors comes on, several minutes often go by before the lights shut off again. We’re going to shorten this interval, because this will save quite a bit of electricity. This means you’ll notice that the motion sensor-controlled lighting in hallways, offices and so on switches off more quickly than before.
- All unnecessary indoor and outdoor lighting in and around all buildings will be switched off, for example facade lighting, outdoor spaces etc.
- So you’ll notice that there will be fewer spaces that are lit by default. However, we will continue to light areas where this is necessary out of consideration for your safety and security.
Ventilation
- We’re going to start running the ventilation systems in our buildings for shorter periods of time, because this will save a lot of electricity. You’ll notice that the ventilation system in your building may no longer be running 24-7, which means that the indoor climate may not live up to the same consistently high standards as before. However, we will naturally continue to meet the legal requirements for air quality.
- The ventilation systems will typically be turned off at night and at outside working hours; adjustments will be made based on an assessment of what’s technically possible and most appropriate.
Heating
- Aarhus University will heat its buildings to a maximum of 19 degrees Celsius in the autumn and winter months, in line with the government’s new guidelines.
- Nineteen degrees is not as warm as we’re used to, so some staff may find they need to dress a bit more warmly in the coming months. Previously 21 degrees Celsius was the maximum temperature according to AU guidelines.
- In many buildings, the temperature is regulated centrally. But in some locations, temperature is regulated by the thermostats in the rooms. In such rooms, it’s your responsibility to help make sure that the temperature is kept at 19 degrees Celsius.
- The temperature may vary from room to room – and in fact, the temperature will vary in the same room depending on where you are. It’s coldest next to the window and next to the door, for example.
- This temperature adjustment is an important contribution to reducing AU’s heat consumption. For every degree the temperature is reduced in a building, on average, the university’s heat consumption will fall by a minimum of 3%.
Closure of selected buildings outside working hours
- There will be some buildings that are no longer open at night and in the weekends to the same extent. This means there will no longer be access to all the facilities in some buildings 24-7. Your building maintenance team or manager can provide you with more details about such closures in your area.
Ongoing optimisation
By collecting data about electricity consumption in our buildings and using machine learning, AU Estates Projects and Development is constantly gathering information that makes it possible to take effective, targeted action to reduce energy consumption.
Other initiatives
The possibility of installing more solar panels on buildings outside the University Park is being investigated. The university is also exploring options for the renovation and energy optimisation of technical installations, light sources and ventilation systems.