Energy-efficient appliances usage are replacing conventional

One of Maejo University’s most essential policies is to encourage using energy -efficient appliances in the university leading to Eco University. Over the year, the university's physical system and environment division has surveyed additional appliances: computers, monitors, printers, televisions, and Refrigerators. Maejo University also provided significant additional appliances with an emphasis on the energy star symbol and number five label, which is the label, in Thailand, displaying it is an energy–saving appliance. The percentage of energy-efficient appliances observed over the previous year was around 56 percent.

 Smart Building implementation

Number of renewable energy sources on campus

Maejo University has eventually pushed the use of renewable energy as an atonement energy source to generate both electricity and heat, Following the university’s Green University and Green Office goals. Over the course of a decade, the university’s renewable energy-producing capacity has steadily expanded. The University now uses five renewable energy sources such as.

- Solar Power

- Biogas

- Biodiesel

- Biomass

- Wind Power
Solar power (Solar rooftop and Solar Collectors) is the primary renewable energy source on campus. Solar rooftop and solar collectors have been put in the offices and student dormitories to reduce energy consumption from daily activities. The solar rooftop panels were installed at

- The Office of President => 110 kW

- School of Renewable Energy => 660 kW

- Udomslip Female Dormitory => 80 kW

- Faculty of Economics => 20 kW

- Intanin Stadium Stands => 40 kW

- Water production building => 20 kW

- Wastewater treatment=>10 kW

This year, The university completed the installation of a 300 kW solar rooftop plant at Umnuay Yodsuk building, which was finished in July.

In addition, the solar collector panels are installed at - All dormitories => 1,331 m2

- International Education and Training Center => 85 m2

Maejo University has also used biogas as renewable energy. the Faculty of Animal Science (650 m3) has established a biogas plant, which utilizes livestock byproducts to generate electricity, while the School of Renewable Energy (3 m3) has installed a biogas facility that uses residential raw waste to generate heat.

Biodiesel is another renewable energy source that Maejo University has used to manufacture oil from leftover cooking oil. The oil waste delivered from the canteen and cookery shop is converted by transesterification from the biodiesel station, 150-liter production capacity, that is located at the School of Renewable Energy; The biodiesel is used for trucks and tractors at the institution.

Furthermore, Maejo University has implanted the biomass and ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) plants, each producing 20 kW of electricity, using refuse-derived fuel (RDF) as a fuel. Gases from biomass plant’s gasification process are used to generate electricity, which is subsequently sent to a gas generator. The ORC plant, on the other hand, generates electricity by boiling water into superheated steam and operating steam turbine.

Finally, at the School of Renewable Energy, wind power is clean energy that is used for street lights and generates electricity. In the case of street lights, the wind turbine on the street light, which is powered by the wind, generates power for the battery. On the other hand, the wind turbine (16.5 kW) generates power for the buildings of the School of Renewable Energy, reducing energy consumption from the primary source.
The production of renewable energy

Table 2.3 illustrates the production of renewable energy compared in kWh/year. Biogas production systems with 653 m3 capacity compensate for 48,238 kWh/year of electricity usage. as well as biomass and ORC power plant can replace 144,000 kWh/year. The biodiesel production system, has produced 3,420 liters of biodiesel/year which can secure 26,331.95 kWh/year of electricity usage. Solar sources including solar power systems and solar collector systems are the most electricity production generating at 2,033,159.31 kWh/year. Furthermore, Wind power systems produce 11,869.80 kWh/year generating electricity and light. Therefore, the summary of the renewable energy produced on campus is around 2,263,599.46 kWh/year. Appendix 3 eventually depicts the energy compensation calculation of the renewable energy sources on the campus. Table 2.4 shows the electricity production of solar power annually from September 2023 to August 2024.

Electricity usage per year (in kilo watt hour)

Maejo University’s annual electricity consumption 10,526,708.00 kWh/year (from September 2023 to August 2024), which is approximately 7.11 percent less than the previous year (11,333,178.93 kWh) compare the data of previous year. Maejo University opens every trimester every year. The first term begins in early July and concludes in October. The second term embarks in late November and finishes in March and the summer term, when the number of students is less than the first and second term, starts in mid-April and ends in June. This year, the university has opened fully for academic activities and research. Moreover, the number of students entering the university increased by around 9.65% compared to the previous year compare the data of the previous year. Therefore, the electricity consumption of Maejo University has could save from the previous year.

Figure 1, the chart illustrates the electricity consumption over a three -year period at MJU, spanning from, 2021-2022, 2022-2023 to 2023-2024. Notably, there was a fluctuation in energy usage between September 2023 and August 2024. In september 2023, there was a significant increase of 114,099 kWh when compared to September 2022. After that, from October 2023 to June 2023 the electricity consumption decreasesd. This period, the lowest electricity of was found 726,069 kWh in Jan 2023. Until July 2023 show the significant increasing approximate 32.38%. This information comparing electricity consumption during the 2021 to 2024 was found that the period between 2023 to 2024 presense the higher than the previous year due to the increasing number of student in our campus.

The total electricity consumption divided by the total campus population is equal to 519.45 kWh/person.  n 2024, Total electricity consumption is 10,526,708.00 kWh/year, and total renewable energy output is 2,263,599.46 kWh/year, or 17.70 percent of total electricity consumption. However, compared to the last year, the ratio of renewable energy production to total energy usage per year increased by about 0.63 %
Elements of green building implementation as reflected in all construction and

renovation policy

Based on the 2021 Green University Report, this year marks the completion of the construction of Maejo University's sports complex. This facility serves as a hub for community and national sports events, as well as sports training for Maejo University students and staff. Notably, the sports complex has been designed with a strong emphasis on adhering to Green Building standards. It incorporates natural ventilation to regulate interior temperatures and maximizes the use of daylight to illuminate the entire area of the sports complex.

The Thammasakmontri building is currently undergoing renovation with a strong emphasis on green building strategies. While construction is ongoing, the primary objective is to integrate sustainable features into the design. One of the key components of this design is to maximize natural lighting throughout the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting and saving energy costs. Additionally, the building incorporates highly effective insulation to minimize heat penetration, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy consumption. This commitment to eco-friendly building practices aligns with the university's dedication to sustainability and creating a greener future for its employees and students.
Furthermore, the university has transformed an empty library room into a collaborative workspace, aligning with its green building principles. This innovative conversion aims to minimize the reliance on electrical lighting by capitalizing on abundant natural light. This approach not only fosters an environmentally sustainable atmosphere but also encourages a more eco-conscious and energy-efficient way of working, showcasing the university's commitment to incorporating green building practices into its everyday operations.
The Architecture and Environmental Design Classroom within the Faculty of Architecture and Environmental Design has recently undergone energy-efficient upgrades. The earlier design, responsible for 65% of the overall energy consumption related to air conditioning, has been enhanced with the introduction of low heat-transfer insulation and a new architectural concept that considers the occupancy levels and usage patterns of the building. Consequently, when compared to the original design, these modifications have led to a remarkable 54% reduction in the air conditioning load.

The School of Renewable Energy has developed a fresh database that gathers data from both the solar plant's inverter and power meter. This software offers near real-time visibility into the system's status such as Power Generation on the solar plant, building's power consumption, Irradiation, and weather temperature. Furthermore, to analyze data pertaining to solar plants and power consumption, the system allows for the downloading of this information into an Excel file for analyzing the power generation and power consumption of the buildings at the school.
Green House Gas Emission Program: Maejo University is a comprehensive agricultural university. So, the greenhouse gas emission programs taking care of the environment are essential for both the university and nearby communities. Maejo University has willingly proceeded the completed progra m throughout the year categorized by greenhouse gas emission sources into 3 scopes.

Fugitive Emissions

- Inspecting the condition of the air comfort system: The university places a strong emphasis

on the annual inspection and upkeep of its air comfort systems, an essential practice for

optimizing system efficiency and energy conservation. To ensure the highest standard of

maintenance, the university has enlisted the expertise of a third-party service provider. This

external party is responsible for the meticulous examination and cleaning of the university's

air conditioning units. This proactive and outsourced approach guarantees that the systems

operate at their best, creating a comfortable and eco-friendly environment for all.

Scope 2:

o Purchased Electricity

- Cleaning Air conditioners: Maejo University's commitment to maintaining its air

conditioning systems in peak condition remains an annual practice. This year, the university

has gone a step further by enlisting the services of a third-party specialist to carry out a

thorough cleaning of all air conditioning units across the campus. This proactive approach

ensures that every corner of the university benefits from clean and efficiently running air

conditioners, fostering a comfortable and conducive environment for its students and staff.
Scope 3:

o Waste

- A waste separation system at MJU: The university has completed the construction of a

waste separation system capable of handling up to 5 tons of waste per day. The project had

an estimated budget of 14,540,000 Thai Baht, spread over six installments across 270 days.

The final installment was concluded on October 9, 2023. The waste separation system comprises:

1. Weighing System

2. Wet Waste Separation

3. Conveyor Belts

4. Metal Sorting Machine

5. Soil Screening Machine

6. RDF Compressor

This process achieves a 100% waste separation rate with the following breakdown:

- Recyclable Waste: 5% (250 kg/day)

- Organic Waste: 45% (2.25 tons/day)

- Incinerable Waste: 30% (1.5 tons/day)

- Residual Waste sent to landfill: 20% (1 ton/day)

o Commuting

- Providing bicycles to students and personnel: As per the formal agreement established

between Maejo University and Anywheel Co. Ltd., a unique opportunity has arisen for

students to access bicycles conveniently located near the university's designated stop points.

These bicycles are offered at an exclusive and cost-effective rate, catering specifically to the

student community. This collaborative initiative promotes sustainable and eco-friendly

transportation options, making it easier for students to navigate the campus and its

surroundings while contributing to a greener and more environmentally conscious university

environment. Total number of bicycle and scooter use in our campus 150 and 50 respectively.

Data : - Electricity usage per year = 10,526,708.00 kWh/year

- The approximate daily travel distance of vehicle inside the campus was calculated from the transportation 4-step model and calibrated with traffic surveying data as follows; Vehicle type Vehicle Kilometer of Travel

only (in kilometers) * 240/100) * 0.02 = (2,551.62 x 240/100) x 0.02 = 122.48 metric ton

? Transportation per year (shuttle bus)

= ( 0 x 240/100) x 0.02 = 0 metric ton

? Transportation per year (Motorcycle)

= (3,298.52x 240/100) x 0.01 = 79.16 metric ton

Total Emission per year = 8,842.43 + 122.48 + 0 + 79.16 = 9,044.07 metric ton 
The result from 2.11 that was calculated total carbon footprint per population of 0.446 metric ton / person
Number of innovative program(s) in energy and climate change

o Innovative Transport App for Campus Commuters: Maejo University has rolled out a userfriendly web and mobile application designed to streamline transportation within the university campus. The app features detailed shuttle bus routes, real-time tracking of buses, and convenient bus stop locations, providing an enhanced commuting experience for students and staff.

Maejo University's Book Drop Service for Effortless Book Returns: The university's library has promoted its "Book Drop" initiative, offering instructors and students a convenient method to return borrowed books without the need to visit the library in person. These book return boxes are now available at every faculty within Maejo University.
Smart Bicycle Parking Systems at Maejo University: Enhancing Convenience and Accessibility: Maejo University, in collaboration with Anywheel Co. Ltd., has implemented a bike parking system that not only locates bicycles after use but also monitors the availability of parking spaces, ensuring convenience and accessibility for users.The number of bicycle and scooter use in our campus nowadays is 150 and 50 respectively.

o Expanding Boundaries: Maejo University's Global Initiatives for Online Meetings and Courses: Maejo University's commitment to leveraging online platforms for meetings and courses remains unwavering. This strategy, freed from pandemic constraints, continues to offer valuable benefits like efficient resource use, environmental sustainability, and global engagement in higher education. It signifies a lasting shift towards the future of learning and collaboration.
Development of Smart Electric Tractors for Agriculture: This project focuses on the development of small-sized tractors by replacing diesel fuel with electricity generated from solar cells stored in batteries. The motor used in this tractor has a capacity of 19 kW and operates with Lithium-ion batteries, providing an average of 3-4 hours of continuous use per charging cycle. The aim of developing this electric tractor is to serve as a prototype for farmers and entrepreneurs to adopt and expand its usage, reducing the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. The total research budget for this project is 750,000 Baht or $21,428.57, with a research duration of one year.

The Development of Hybrid Materials for Light Filtering and Energy Harvesting for Greenhouse Plant Cultivation: This project focuses on developing hybrid materials for light filtering within the suitable wavelength range for greenhouse plant cultivation. The developed film is made from low-density polyethylene, transparent, highly flexible, UV-resistant, and effective in reducing the passage of infrared radiation. The benefit of this development is harnessing solar energy, which is clean and sustainable, to maximize agricultural product production
Prototype of a Smart Closed-System Greenhouse with Temperature Reduction and Water Harvesting using Peltier Devices: This project aims to develop and create a smart closed-system greenhouse that incorporates Peltier or thermoelectric cooler plates. These plates have the dual capability of cooling and releasing heat. They are installed within the greenhouse, with the cooling side inside the greenhouse and the heating side outside the greenhouse. When electricity is supplied from solar panels to the Peltier device, the cooling side of the Peltier plate reduces the temperature inside the greenhouse, allowing for precise temperature control according to the needs of the herbal plants being cultivated. Simultaneously, the Peltier plates control moisture condensation, allowing the collection of condensed water to be utilized for a drip irrigation system for plant cultivation within the greenhouse. This project emphasizes the application of clean energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable energy.

o Development of Community-Based Biomass Management and Promotion of Appropriate Alternative Energy Technologies to Address Haze Issues: This project focuses on raising awareness and building understanding within communities in areas prone to open burning, particularly in the Chiang Mai province. Simultaneously, it promotes the adoption of alternative energy technologies to reduce open burning practices. The project encourages the efficient use of biomass stoves, the transformation of biomass into compacted fuel, and charcoal production. It also provides training to approximately 500 local participants, promoting more than 10 technologies. The project's outcomes aim to transform community behaviors, reducing open burning while simultaneously promoting the use of renewable energy sources, ultimately leading to improved air quality.
o Development of Prototype Machines for Molding Bio-based Packaging from Biomass Using Solar Energy: This research project focuses on the development of machinery for transforming community forest waste, particularly leaves and wood, into products like dishes, glassware, and containers. The goal is to reduce the volume of biomass waste in community forests, which is a significant factor contributing to annual forest fires. Additionally, the project promotes economic activities and income generation by producing these bio-based products. The initiative has successfully introduced the technology to over 100 villages in the northern region of Thailand. The outcomes include addressing the haze issue, fostering a sense of love and protection for community forests, reducing open burning practices, and improving air quality for community members.

More details: University-run sustainability website - MAEJO UNIVERSITY GREEN UNIVERSITY & SUSTAINABLE UNIVERSITY