Southern Institute of Technology
Coal Boiler Replacement Feasibility Study
Problem:
SIT wanted to improve their energy efficiency at their Invercargill campus, and investigate options to replace two existing coal boilers.
Solution:
Lumen carried out an energy tranisiton accelerator that identified several energfy efficiency and demand reduction opportunities for SIT. We provided energy metering assistance and a coal boiler replacement feasibility study to identify the most efficient replacement options for the existing boilers. After modelling boiler sizing and storage tank sizing, we landed on an optimal system size to meet the space heating requirements of the campus. Lumen also provided project implementation support to ensure the original concept was maintained.
Results:
The project was a success. SIT was able to improve their energy efficiency by replacing the two coal fired boilers with electric boilers, while utilising a large amount of hot water storage for load management to avoid high energy costs. This is a significant step towards their medium-to-long-term sustainability goals, helping to achieve a reduction in overall carbon emissions, as well as more flexibility and better heat control throughout the Invercargill campus buildings.