UTech, Jamaica 2015-16 Annual Report

Page 43 University of Technology, Jamaica ANNUAL REPORT 2015-2016 Caribbean Sustainable Energy & Innovation Institute (CSEII) Dr. Ruth Potopsingh Associate Vice President The Caribbean Sustainable Energy & Innovation Institute (CSEII) was established in June 2013 with the objective of fulfilling the University’s strategic direction, to provide leadership in sustainable energy through applications in renewable energy, applied research, energy efficiency, and policy and energy education. It is expected to conduct specialised research and deliver post graduate teaching programmes. In addition to the core areas of interdisciplinary research and education and outreach the Institute undertakes special projects and consultancy services as one measure towards achieving the goal of financial self-sufficiency. The Institute partners with institutions and industry locally and internationally and works across academic units to forge interdisciplinary alliances within a framework of innovation and entrepreneurship. The CSEII is responsible for managing the University’s energy use and introducing renewable energy and efficiency solutions to contain costs and to engender a greener philosophy. Energy Conservation and Energy Management Projects and Innovations JPS-UTech, Ja. Solar Project – 100kw Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System The 100kw Solar PV System continues to produce electricity for the University and provide a teaching tool for engineering students. It is also a demonstrable cost-saving option. The university spent approximately J$184 million on electricity for the reporting period. Savings from the Solar PV System was approximately J$4 million. Plant Visits The Solar PV System also serves as an educational tool to institutions at the secondary and tertiary level. More than 50 students toured the facility to view the technical set-up, including the 5 kW display system and inverter rooms. UTech Jamaica’s Energy Consumption The University monitors its energy usage by analyzing its electricity bills on a monthly basis. Focus is placed