Energy efficiency and RES integration : a practical approach to tackle energy costs in Moldovan public buildings

Abstract

"Moldova is taking currently firm steps towards diminishing energy costs, increase energy security and sustainable growth. These actions are dictated both by political and economic factors. Politically Moldova is a partner country of the EU Eastern Partnership, with aspirations of EU accession and thus obliged to implement the climate change actions that are developed now in the EU. The economic factor is one of high importance too, as Moldova has a highly energy intensive economy, with high energy costs both in the public and private sectors, that need to be tackled immediately. It's important for a developing country as Moldova is, to use effectively the money allocated for energy related issues, especially in the public sector. The above mentioned problem has started a big debate among the stakeholders representing the public and private sector. The discussed question is whether to apply RES technologies or Energy efficiency measures in order to decrease energy consumptions in the public sector. The author tried to elaborate and study both options, using the available technologies present on the Moldovan market. The core objective of the master thesis was to examine what RES technology, or Efficiency measure is suitable both technically and most important financially to diminish the energy costs in an average public building: - a school. The possible GHG reduction effect from these actions was examined as well. The examined energy efficiency measures were building insulation and windows replacement for space heating costs and installation of light dimming systems coupled with replacement of old halogen T8 lights with new LED lamps for electricity costs tackling. For RES technologies, biomass and GSHP without and coupled with energy efficiency measures were applied for space heating costs, while PV system coupled with efficiency measures was applied for electricity consumption. The result showed that, in present market conditions of Moldova, the most suitable actions for the management of public buildings is to apply Energy efficiency measures first. RES technologies that could be applied are limited and should be coupled with efficiency measures as well for a sustainable result as in the case of PV system."