Energy Management

Energy Management

IIT (ISM) Dhanbad is steadily moving toward a more sustainable, self-reliant energy future through renewable integration, efficiency upgrades, and smart energy governance. These initiatives not only reduce the institute's carbon footprint but also serve as a living lab for students and researchers in energy disciplines.

  • Campus-wide replacement of traditional lighting with LED fixtures.
  • Installation of rooftop solar panels across academic and hostel buildings with a cumulative capacity of over 1.5 MW, significantly reducing grid dependency, is under process.

  • IIT(ISM) Dhanbad has signed an MoU with Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) to purchase 20% of total energy consumption as Green Power w.e.f. 01.05.2025.

  • Major portion of campus lighting systems have been converted to energy-efficient LED fixtures. Transitioning from traditional lighting to LED fixtures significantly reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. LEDs offer higher luminous efficacy and longer lifespans, contributing to substantial energy savings.
  • Estimated energy savings of over 30% on lighting systems is achieved.
  • Smart lighting systems with motion sensors installed in corridors and public areas to reduce energy waste. Implementing motion detection sensors ensures that lights and HVAC systems operate only when spaces are occupied. A study demonstrated that such systems in university settings can achieve significant energy savings, with reductions of up to 77.6% in lighting energy consumption in certain areas.
  • Replacement of old induction fans with BLDC Fans is being carried out in phase manner

  • Installation of centralized air conditioning systems (VRF/VRV) in classrooms. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) systems offer precise temperature control and energy efficiency. These systems adjust refrigerant flow based on demand, reducing energy consumption compared to traditional HVAC system.
  • Installation of water-cooled chiller units for large buildings (library, i2h, and irh). Water-cooled chillers are more efficient than air-cooled systems, especially for large facilities. They provide effective cooling with lower energy consumption, contributing to overall energy savings in sizable buildings.
  • Scheduled operation and maintenance of centralized cooling systems is carried out to prevent overuse.
  • Utilization of Only BEE 5-Star Rated Air Conditioners.The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) 5-star rating signifies the highest level of energy efficiency. Using 5-star rated air conditioners ensures lower electricity consumption, reduced operational costs, and minimal environmental impact.
  • Heat pump water heaters are highly efficient, transferring heat from the air to heat water, consuming less electricity compared to conventional water heaters. This system provides consistent hot water supply while reducing energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Installation of automated digital energy meters in academic departments and hostels.
  • Helps in identifying peak loads and improving demand-side management.
  • Introduction of energy metering systems to track consumption patterns and optimize usage.
  • Implementation of energy management systems in substations.Energy Management Systems (EMS) monitor and control energy usage, enabling realtime data analysis and optimization of energy consumption. EMS facilitates proactive maintenance and efficient energy distribution across the campus.
  • Operation of lifts in duplexing mode to save energy. Duplexing mode allows coordinated operation of paired elevators, optimizing their movement based on demand. This reduces idle time and energy consumption, enhancing the efficiency of vertical transportation within buildings.

  • Hosting of Energy Conservation Awareness Weeks, seminars, and workshops for students and staff.
  • Student clubs and technical societies engage in energy audits and awareness drives.

  • Ongoing research in solar PV materials, distributed energy resources, energy storage, power electronics, smart grid systems, smart heating and cooling systems through various departments (especially by Electrical, Electronics, and Mechanical Engineering Departments).
  • Interdisciplinary projects funded by agencies like DST-ANRF, MNRE, industries and so on.