Análise energética do prédio da faculdade de engenharia da UFGD: uma aplicação do software energyplus para redução do consumo de energia

Abstract

The economic development of a region and the country and comfort in buildings are directly linked to energy use. However, dependence on non-renewable sources contributes to global warming and climate change. Energy management and efficiency measures in HVAC systems, lighting, equipment, and buildings enable reductions in energy demand and environmental degradation. This study developed an analysis of energy consumption and efficiency for the Engineering Faculty building at the Federal University of Grande Dourados using the EnergyPlus software. Simulations included the installation of shading devices (brises) on the south façade, replacing ordinary glass with reflective glass, changing the external paint color, and substituting conventional air conditioning systems with a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system. The proposed energy efficiency measures resulted in an annual air conditioner reduction of 18.10 MWh, equivalent to 18.9% of the building’s total consumption. Individually, the brises contributed 3.8%, reflective glass 7.0%, external paint 8.2%, and the VRF system 21.8%, while combined measures achieved a 33.9% reduction. The economic evaluation demonstrated the feasibility of changing the building's external paint and implementing the VRF system in new projects, with discounted payback periods of 3 and 9 years, net present values of R$ 5,994.03 and R$ 60,330.97, and internal rates of return of 28.4% and 19.35%, respectively. In conclusion, simulations during the design phase maximize economic and environmental benefits, while implementing energy efficiency measures in existing buildings incurs higher costs, technical challenges, and, in many cases, economic infeasibility.