Analysis of electric energy consumption in an office building in Saudi Arabia

As a step toward exploring energy conservation opportunities in Saudi office buildings, a six-story office administration building was selected to conduct an energy audit. This building has been in use since 1996 and is equipped with a number of different types of office equipment and lighting fixtures. The building air-conditioning system is composed of three air-cooled reciprocating chillers, three liquid distribution pumps, and four air-handling units (AHUs). This paper reports measured values of actual electrical energy consumed by individual chillers, AHUs, different lighting systems, office equipment, and other associated electric appliances used in the building. The results show that daily air-conditioning energy represents 74% of the building's total electric load during the summer peak period. The other major measured electric loads are 11.4% for interior lights and 11% for office equipment. Rescheduling of chiller operation for optimum performance, use of energy-efficient lighting, and use of programmable thermostats are suggested to be incorporated in the building for energy and power savings.