Sakarya University has implemented various measures to monitor and track low-carbon energy use, focusing on improving energy efficiency through renewable energy sources. Since 2010, the university has been regularly measuring carbon emissions and has made significant efforts to reduce them. In 2023, in line with its policy and strategic objectives, Sakarya University prioritized the use of low-carbon and renewable energy sources to further reduce emissions. Additionally, the university organizes educational programs and events on energy, carbon reduction, and climate change for students, staff, and the broader community.
Raising Awareness: Organizing educational programs to increase awareness of energy conservation among students, staff, and the community. Public seminars and educational programs are held to raise awareness about energy efficiency and the use of clean energy, and various events are conducted by student organizations.
Renewable Energy Sources: Using renewable energy sources to meet campus energy needs and establishing facilities that generate energy from these sources. The university provides equipment and financial resources for renewable energy studies to research centers and offers guidance and support for renewable energy R&D projects through the Scientific Research Projects Coordination. Sakarya University is committed to supporting 100% renewable energy.
Sustainable Building Design: Increasing energy efficiency in buildings through projects that integrate natural ventilation, maximize daylight usage, and comply with green building certification standards. To utilize daylight efficiently, the university integrates natural lighting systems into new buildings and has adapted 90% of existing buildings to optimize daylight usage. Since 2011, buildings in Türkiye must comply with energy efficiency standards. The Energy Performance Regulation in Buildings establishes performance criteria and implementation principles, guided by the 2012-2023 Energy Efficiency Strategy Document, which sets out policies and targets. With the Presidential Decree on Energy Conservation in Public Buildings, the energy savings target for public buildings required to appoint an energy manager under the Energy Efficiency Law No. 5627 has been set at a minimum of 30% by 2030. The tasks and procedures to be implemented to achieve energy savings are defined in the Public Buildings Savings Target and Implementation Guide (2024-2030). Within this scope, new buildings are equipped with energy management units and sensor devices (for doors, lighting, flush tanks, faucets, etc.); renovation and maintenance works adhere to the Green Certification Regulation for Buildings and Settlements. Energy-efficient practices are preferred, including building management systems, fire and flood alert systems, energy management and monitoring panels, natural heating, ventilation, lighting applications, LEDs, sensors, and areas with natural light.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Preparing annual energy consumption reports to ensure policy effectiveness. These reports also include improvement efforts to reduce energy waste and assess progress toward sustainability goals.
Energy Efficiency Practices
Sakarya University implements various practices to realize its energy policy. 90% of durable goods consist of energy-efficient devices, while 85% of lighting fixtures use energy-saving LED technology. New buildings constructed in line with smart building standards are equipped with energy management units and sensor devices. Efforts are made to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings; energy-saving models are prioritized when devices malfunction or are replaced. Additionally, building energy consumption is monitored and reported through energy management systems. During annual maintenance, devices requiring replacement are upgraded with energy-saving models. Solar-powered lamps are used for street lighting.
Carbon Emission Reduction and Divestment Policy
Sakarya University is taking decisive steps to reduce carbon emissions. Investments are made in low-carbon and renewable energy sources, and in 2023, the university supported renewable energy production exceeding its own consumption through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-REC), sourced from hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. These certificates accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy and contribute to carbon emissions reduction. The university has adopted a divestment policy to gradually phase out investments in carbon-intensive energy sources like coal and oil, aiming to become carbon-neutral by 2053. While natural gas is considered a temporary solution for heating, the university’s long-term goal is to establish an infrastructure based entirely on renewable energy, independent of all fossil fuels.
Sakarya University stands as a pioneering institution in energy efficiency and sustainability with its energy policy and practices. Newly constructed buildings comply with energy efficiency standards, while measures are taken to enhance the energy efficiency of existing buildings. These efforts continue as part of the university’s commitment to leave a more sustainable world for future generations.
Etiketler :