Global Utilities

Energy Management

Climate change is causing the average temperature of the Earth to rise. The global rise in temperature melts ice sheets around the world which raises sea levels. Climate change also affects weather patterns causing heat waves, floods and severe droughts. Climate change not only has a negative impact on human health but also on animal and plants.

The increase in greenhouse gases causes global warming by trapping additional heat from the light of the sun in the atmosphere surrounding the Earth. Human activities are increasing greenhouse gases beyond the normal level causing too much heat to be trapped and rising the temperature of the Earth’s surface.

The main human activities that contribute towards greenhouse gases are burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil or gas and generating electricity by burning fossil fuels.

Energy Conservation

Energy use is one of the main causes of greenhouse gases. The following measures can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Please turn off when not in use:

  • Lighting
  • Air-conditioning
  • Computers and electrical equipment

Timers can be used to turn off equipment. Computers and photocopiers can be configured to switch to stand-by mode when not in use.
Other than causing greenhouse pollution, leaving equipment on:

  • Costs money
  • Can damage equipment
  • Increase maintenance cost

Back to Top

Energy Efficiency

  • When purchasing new equipment, please ensure it has the highest possible energy efficiency star rating
  • Use economy cycle to control the building temperature
  • Use energy efficient lighting and maximise the use of natural light

Minimise energy use in offices:

  • Service and clean lighting installations on a regular basis
  • Clean and replace building air-filters at recommended intervals
  • Keep windows and doors closed when the air-conditioning is on
  • Install automatic door closers to the air-conditioning space
  • Promote the use of solar water heating system

Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program

La Trobe University is participating in the Greenhouse Challenge Plus program. The aim of the program is to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of Australian companies and increase energy efficiency by helping companies look into the ways they can reduce waste and save energy.

More information can be found at: http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/challenge/

Energy Efficiency Opportunities Program

La Trobe University is also participating in Energy Efficiency Opportunities (EEO). EEO helps large energy using companies increase their energy efficiency by identifying, evaluating and implementing energy saving strategies.

More information can be found at: http://www.energyefficiencyopportunities.gov.au/

Back to Top

Water Management

Water is a precious resource. We are currently in a drought situation and below average rainfall has an adverse impact on our water storage capacity. Please ensure you use water wisely and comply with water restrictions.

Use water wisely:

  • Only use dishwashers when the load is full
  • Turn off taps completely and report any plumbing leaks
  • When purchasing appliances, select ones with an economy cycle

More information on water & water restrictions can be obtained from http://www.yvw.com.au/yvw/Home

Back to Top

Energy Management Database

The Energy Management System is an interactive web based system that supports energy data analysis. It helps store, manage and analyse data relating to Electricity, Natural Gas and Water consumed at La Trobe University campuses.

The data can be viewed in tabular and graphical formats.

This system is to be used by the University staff having the responsibility of energy management.

Energy Management Database


"It is our responsibility to utilise available resources wisely and minimise the impact on global warming. Climate change is a real threat to the basic existence of humankind. Energy conservation and efficiency gain through innovative technologies, and our investment in sustainable technologies will have a profound effect on the life of this planet."

Back to Top

Content Approved by: Director, Buildings and Grounds Division
Page maintained by: Systems Administrator (Sehmeet Singh)
Last Updated: 3 June, 2009

B&G information

University links