DONE Energy Audit Castleknock Golf Club

Department of Electrical Services Engineering

Energy Management Group Assignment “Energy Audit”

Course Code DT018 Lecturer: Alan Harrison Assignment No: 2 Students Name & No: Rory Conlon D07114364

Paul Derwin D07114349 Paul Dunne D11124233 Gareth Enright D01100778

Submission Date: 10th December 2012

Energy Management Group Assignment DT018

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Declaration We hereby certify that the material, which is submitted in this

assignment/project, is entirely our own work and has not been submitted for

any academic assessment other than as part fulfilment of the assessment

procedures for the program Bachelor of Science in Electrical Services and

Energy Management (BSc (Hons)) (DT 018).

Signature of students: Rory Conlon …………….………

Paul Derwin …………….……… Paul Dunne …………….……… Gareth Enright …………….………

Date: 10th December 2012


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Table of Contents: Page No.

Declaration ........................................................................................................... ii!

Table of Contents: ............................................................................................... iii!

Table of Figures: .................................................................................................. v!

1.0! Introduction .............................................................................................. 1!

2.0! Methodology. ............................................................................................ 2!

2.1! Description of facility .............................................................................. 3!

2.2! Initial Site Survey ................................................................................... 4!

3.0! Significant Energy Usage ......................................................................... 5!

3.1! Natural Gas Usage ................................................................................ 5!

4.0! Electrical Energy Consumption ................................................................ 7!

4.1! Clubhouse general observation ............................................................. 9!

4.2! Lighting Estimates ............................................................................... 10!

5.0! Water Charges ....................................................................................... 13!

6.0! Irrigation. ................................................................................................ 15!

6.1! Purpose of Irrigation ............................................................................ 15!

6.2! Irrigation at Castleknock Golf Club ...................................................... 15!

6.3! Castleknock Golf Course Layout ......................................................... 16!

6.4! Usage of Pumps .................................................................................. 17!

6.5! Recommendation s for Irrigation on Course ........................................ 18!

7.0! Compressed Air. .................................................................................... 19!

7.1! Course Benefits ................................................................................... 19!

7.2! Golfer Benefits ..................................................................................... 19!

7.3! Problems .............................................................................................. 19!


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7.4! Recommendations ............................................................................... 22!

8.0! Solar hot water system ........................................................................... 23!

8.1! Site location ......................................................................................... 24!

8.1.1! Existing Hot Water Demand .......................................................... 24!

8.1.2! Current Space Heating System ..................................................... 24!

9.0! Fuel usage ............................................................................................. 26!

10.0! Alternative options for charging caddy cars ........................................... 27!

10.1! Machine shop lighting options. ......................................................... 29!

11.0! Conclusion ............................................................................................. 31!

12.0! Photo’s of Group Members on Site ........................................................ 33!

13.0! Bibliography ........................................................................................... 34!

14.0! Appendix 1 Gas Bill ................................................................................ 35!

15.0! ESB MIC ................................................................................................ 36!

16.0! Appendix 2 EED steps ........................................................................... 37!


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Table of Figures: Page No.

Figure 1: Venn Diagram (SEAI) .......................................................................... 2!

Figure 2: Club house at night .............................................................................. 4!

Figure 3: (Commercial/Industrial Fuels Comparison of Energy for Space

Heating (SEAI) .................................................................................................... 5!

Figure 4: Gas Expenditure - Period 2011/12 ...................................................... 6!

Figure 5: Schedule of payments to Flogas ......................................................... 6!

Figure 6 ............................................................................................................... 7!

Figure 7: Summary of energy cost per year ........................................................ 8!

Figure 8 ............................................................................................................... 9!

Figure 9 ............................................................................................................... 9!

Figure 10: Schedule of payments to Airtricity ................................................... 12!

Figure 11 ........................................................................................................... 13!

Figure 12: Schedule of Payments for Water. .................................................... 14!

Figure 13: Data plate & arrangement of Irrigation Pumps ................................ 17!

Figure 14: Compressed Air System .................................................................. 20!

Figure 15: Compressed Air Indicator ................................................................ 21!

Figure 16: Direct vs Diffuse Radiation & map of average solar irradiation in

Europe (KINGSPAN, 2012b) ............................................................................ 23!

Figure 17: Optimal collector position & roof of south-facing clubhouse dining

area ................................................................................................................... 24!

Figure18: Underfloor heating loop (taken from:

http://www.thewarmfloorcompany.co.uk) .......................................................... 25!

Figure19: Toro Greensmaster eFlex walk behind & ActionEco ride on greens

mowers, both use li-ion battery technology (www.toro.com/eflex,

www.actioneco.com) ......................................................................................... 26!

Figure 20: Buggy rank ....................................................................................... 27!

Figure 21: Trojan (T1275 batteries installed) .................................................... 27!

Figure 22: (http://www.europower.ie/Renewable.htm) ...................................... 28!

Figure 23: (YouTube demo) .............................................................................. 28!

Figure 24: Machine shop lighting ...................................................................... 29!


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Figure 25: Roof lights (GRP type) ..................................................................... 30!

Figure 26: Groupmembers on site, Rory, Gareth, Paul & Paul ......................... 33!

Figure 27: EED (SEAI) ...................................................................................... 37!


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1.0 Introduction We had the pleasure of carrying out our audit on Castleknock Golf Club in mid-

November. The club house and course was constructed in 2005, it was developed

by Monarch Properties and designed by WDR & RT Taggart Architects. The course

is set in 160 acres of idyllic countryside with 10 acres of lakes, and a club house of

over 900 sq Metres. The building itself sat on a ridge line above the River Liffey

valley and faced a Southerly aspect. The location was both bright and airy.

This building and all of the facilities were built for purpose and the quality of that

build was reflected in almost every aspect of the survey. Management and staff were

extremely well versed not only in specific roles but generally as well. The task facing

the energy auditors was therefore challenging. To examine and try to synthesize a

series of suggested improvements was not going to be an easy task. Yet there was

scope. The site itself was extremely well lit by sunlight. Wind was present in

abundance. The usual suspects with regard to lighting and heating could be looked

at and improved. There was a compressed air installation which offered possibilities.

All of these and more were there to be examined.

This audit sought to look at where there could be energy gains, and energy

savings, legislative compliance and environmental impact. The final report would

have to be cognisant of practicalities like budget limitations, implementation issues,

and effective energy management. The latter mentioned item meant that an effective

methodology would have to be implemented to oversee the hopefully successful

result.


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2.0 Methodology A main guideline in defining a methodology for the audit was to reference the

IS.EN16001:2009 European energy management standard as pointed out by the

SEAI. This has now been superseded by the ISO 50001which sought to focus on

specific improvements in the older standard. In general though the guiding feature of

both methodologies was that the adaption of EED (energy efficient design) principles

focused on the user needs rather than equipment or controls.(SEAI, 2009) Key to

this approach was the use of a particular Venn diagram which graphically illustrated

the qualities necessary for a successful conclusion. As outlined by the SEAI the

difference was that the start point was from the perspective of ‘challenging the need

for the energy service e.g. comfort’

Figure 1: Venn Diagram (SEAI)

Attention should therefore be drawn to the Analyse and Challenge portion of the

EED document:

! Consultation with staff in building to identify user needs and opportunities for

energy saving.

! Application of the Venn diagram tool to the energy services identified in the

building

! Assess the energy saving potential of proposed measures(SEAI, 2009)


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The above logic applied to the golf course situation because there was an

inherent cross-over between the comfort needs of the members and the associated

semi –industrial nature of the installation as a whole. The use of a prioritisation tool

to emphasise or score the lower cost available options was utilised. This meant that

the favoured options which were at a lower cost scored or were promoted first. The

twelve step procedure illustrated in Appendix 2 walks the reader through this

approach

Lastly the interview process which was granted to the group by the management

put down a firm basis under which the audit could be conducted. The views of

management and how they approached their patrons/ customers was highly

professional. There was the prospect that an independent group like the energy

auditing group might spot or potentially identify some significant savings, or at least

suggest same. Under that cooperative basis the team set about undertaking a very

interesting challenge.

2.1 Description of facility

Castleknock Golf Club was constructed in the grounds of Sommerton House in

Castleknock Co. Dublin, the course is constructed to USGA standards and is

playable year round thanks to its clever irrigation & drainage system. Briefly the

facility comprises of the following areas:

" Golf course

" Full restaurant

" Kitchen area

" Bar

" Changing Rooms & Shower Facilities

" Pro Shop

" Maintenance workshop

" Caddy car bay

Futher information on the club can be found on their website below:

http://www.castleknockgolfclub.ie/golf/publish/index.php


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Figure 2: Club house at night

2.2 Initial Site Survey

We completed a detailed site survery during our visit to the facility, the following

areas & services were inspected by the group members:

• Heating system, gas boiler, under floor heating

• Caddy car charging area

• Lighting

• Lighting of external promotional signage

• Compressors for cleaning of shoes & clubs

• Pumps for irrigation

• Fuel for green keeping equipment

• Lighting of pumping stations, plant rooms, outhouses

• Refrigeration for kitchen

• Cooking & catering equipment

After the site inspection the group met with Mr. John Sherwood the secretary of

the Club to discuss the aims and objectives of the audit.


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3.0 Significant Energy Usage

3.1 Natural Gas Usage

There were three primary energy usages by the golf course and clubhouse,

and the first to be looked at was natural gas. The gas supplier was Flogas Ireland

Ltd. According to the itemised gas bill, which was dated from 01/10/2011 to

14/11/2012, the expenditure for natural gas for that period was 11,037.80 euro. The

annual expenditure is broken down in the chart in figure 5.

The cost of natural gas based on the SEAI website is illustrated below in figure 3

Figure 3: (Commercial/Industrial Fuels Comparison of Energy for Space Heating (SEAI)


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Figure 4: Gas Expenditure - Period 2011/12

Figure 5: Schedule of payments to Flogas


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4.0 Electrical Energy Consumption The second of the primary energy usages by the golf course and clubhouse was

electricity; the electrical supplier in this case was Airtricity. According to the itemised

electrical bill, which was dated from 01/10/2011 to 14/11/2012, the expenditure for

electricity for that period was 45905.88 euro. The annual expenditure is broken down

in the chart in figure 6

Date of Payment Amount (Euro)

05/10/2011 3437.75

09/11/2011 229.80

23/11/2011 5185.86

15/12/2011 3769.80

31/01/2012 5614.67

01/02/2012 4026.61

15/03/2012 450.70

15/03/2012 336.32

02/04/2012 694.99

10/04/2012 5593.73

08/05/2012 81.46

31/05/2012 5371.48

24/07/2012 5646.70

21/09/2012 5466.01

Figure 6


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The chart below gives a breakdown of the extent of the larger or more

significant energy users within the club. Please note the cost of running the two

irrigation pumps (11 KW each) and compressor at around 5000 euro per year.

At the same time 2500 litres of agricultural fuel (diesel and petrol) for the

upkeep of the course was required every month of the year, this equated to 1000

euro per month or roughly 12,000 euro per year. Space heating with a ratio of

60/40% heating/hot water accounted for a cost of 11000 euro per year, and the most

significant cost to the golf club, its electricity consumption at 45,000 euro. (note: this

was inclusive of 5,000 euro for compressor and irrigation pumps). Water was

charged at 4 monthly intervals

Figure 7: Summary of energy cost per year


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4.1 Clubhouse general observation

The club house itself displayed a remarkable cohesiveness on its electrical

consumption (Airtricity bill). The variation in energy cost over the billing period from

November 2011 to September 2012 was minimal. Especially when it was considered

that the billing periods did not exactly match in terms of day numbers.

Figure 8

What was extraordinary about the bills was their similarity. The months of

greatest expenditure were July and January. The least amounts were in November

and May. These slight differences could easily be accounted for by the differences in

day numbers.

Figure 9


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4.2 Lighting Estimates breakdown

There were 68 number T8 light fittings, (2 in the electrical room and 64 in the

shed), at 58 watts each (3828 watts or 3.828 KW).

On the ground floor in the golf club house there were 21 twin down lighters and

169 single down lighters at 50 watts each. The total wattage was 10550 watts or

10.55 KW. In the hallway, toilets, common areas and bar, there were 63 down lights

and 32 number 60 watt up-lighters which had a power consumption of 5070 watts or

5.07KW. On the first floor there were 42 number 50 watt down lighters and three 60

watt fittings with a power consumption of 2280 watts or 2.28 KW.

The total power consumption of the premises was 21728 watts or 21.728 KW.

It was recorded at the meeting during the audit that the golf course opened at 6

am and closed at 10 pm and open 364 days a year.

Annual power consumption of lighting

21.728KW * 16 Hrs. * 364 Days = 126543.9 KWh per year

Cost of Lighting

126543.9 * 14.7 Cent = 1860195.33 = 18,602 euro per year

If all lights were replaced with 8 watt L.E.D. type fittings the savings made

would be significant. The total power consumption could be reduced by 18376 watts

(18.376 KW) to a staggering 3352 watts (3.352KW).


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Annual power consumption of lighting if L.E.D. lighting was used

3.352 KW * 16 Hrs. * 364 Days = 19522 KWh per year.

Cost of L.E.D. Lighting

19522 KWh * 14.7 Cent = 2870 euro per year

Installation payback was estimated at just over 1 year.


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Date of Payment Amount (Euro)

05/10/2011 3437.75

09/11/2011 229.80

23/11/2011 5185.86

15/12/2011 3769.80

31/01/2012 5614.67

01/02/2012 4026.61

15/03/2012 450.70

15/03/2012 336.32

02/04/2012 694.99

10/04/2012 5593.73

08/05/2012 81.46

31/05/2012 5371.48

24/07/2012 5646.70

21/09/2012 5466.01

Figure 10: Schedule of payments to Airtricity


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5.0 Water Charges The water charges issued by Dublin city council to the golf clubhouse were over a

4-month period, 3 payments per year. According to the itemised report, which was

dated from 01/10/2011 to 31/01/2012, the expenditure for water for that period was

2046.83 euro. It was also noted that the water for the golf course irrigation was

locally sourced and was not included in the water charges issued to the golf club.

The mechanics of the irrigation is explained in section marked ‘Irrigation’.

Based on the Dublin City Council website, 1000 litres (cubic metre) of water cost

1.90 euro in 2012, an increase by 0.09 cent per 1000 litres in the previous year

(Office, 2012)

It emerged during the group meeting with the management of the golf course that

the annual cost of water charges were in the 5000-euro mark, so assumptions on

projected costs in 2011/12 had to be made even though there was a certain lack of

information.

The annual expenditure is broken down in the chart in figure 12

Figure 11


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Date of Payments Cost (Euro)

06/10/2011 2046.83

06/02/2012 2000

06/12/2012 2500

Figure 12: Schedule of Payments for Water.


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6.0 Irrigation Irrigation can be defined as:

“An artificial application of water to the soil through various systems of tubes,

pumps, and sprays. Irrigation is normally used in areas where rainfall is inconsistent

or dry conditions or drought is expected.”(www.studyvalue.com, 2010)

6.1 Purpose of Irrigation

Irrigation was used as a method of supplying water in addition to the water that

comes naturally from the environment. In this case it was used to supply water to a

golf course. Water was spread to ensure the course was kept to a high standard.

The role of irrigation is, in the months of April to September, to prevent the golf

course becoming too dry. In such circumstances the grass may burn and indeed in

most circumstances this will affect playing conditions. The type of system used in

Castleknock golf course was a sprinkler type system.

6.2 Irrigation at Castleknock Golf Club

Castleknock had two main irrigation pumps which are located just off the 2nd

hole of the golf course. This was an ideal location for the pumps because they were

located at the lowest point of the course. Castleknock has 11 lakes in total all of

which are interconnected by a 600mm pipe. Water can be pumped to or taken from

any lake at anytime. Water from all the lakes was collected and ready for use by the

irrigation pumps. Water was fed from the lake at the 3rd hole. All the lakes main

pipes feed into each other and then into the above lake at the 3rd. This was all done

naturally by pipes being installed at a downward angle. If there was too much water

at any one time an overflow facility which connected to the River Liffey was located

at the bottom of the valley parallel with the 3rd hole to route the water onwards.


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6.3 Castleknock Golf Course Layout


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6.4 Usage of Pumps

The irrigation pumps were only used in the months of April to September.

They are used at night between the hours of 10pm and 6am and can on any given

night depending on weather conditions pump between 700,000 and 2,500,000 litres

of water on to the golf course. On average, during the above months around

200,000,000 litres of water was pumped on to the course on a yearly basis. The

sprinkler system used on Castleknock Golf Course was called the Toro System. It is

used widely on golf courses worldwide and is considered one of the best on the

market. The pumps are rated at 11Kw and are used on average for eight hours each

night.

Figure 13: Data plate & arrangement of Irrigation Pumps


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6.5 Recommendation s for Irrigation on Course

A standard unit of electricity from Airtricity is 14.87 cents. Castleknock Golf

Club at present does not have any night time charges. If a dual meter was

introduced it would reduce all irrigation pumping from 14.87 cents to a price of 7.35

cents. Night time rates start at 11pm and finish at 7am.

In an average year the irrigation pumps are operated for 183 days a year and

for eight hours each night. The cost of using the pumps on an annual basis was

calculated as follows:

11Kw (pump rating) × 2 (no. of pumps) × 8 (average hours a night) × 14.87

(airtricty unit price) × 183 (days a year) = € 4,789.32 per annum on pumps

By installing a dual meter the potential cost of using the pumps on an annual

basis was calculated as follows:

11Kw (pump rating) × 2 (no. of pumps) × 8 (average hours a night) × 7.35

(airtricty unit price at night time) × 183 (days a year) = € 2,367.28per annum on pumps

Therefore it was estimated that an annual saving of € 2,422.03 may be

achieved by simply installing dual metering while at the same time ensuring that all

pumping is carried out between the hours of 11pm and 7am.


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7.0 Compressed Air Compressed air systems are a relatively new addition to golf courses. They

have been installed in Ireland, mainly over the last number of years. Such systems

have many advantages and benefits but also present some problems.

7.1 Course Benefits

• They provide a high level of service.

• Reduced facility cleaning costs cut by up to 50%.

• Low maintenance for the club.

• Very reliable and long lifespan suitable for all weather conditions

7.2 Golfer Benefits

• Clean footwear and golf gear after each round.

• Quick, easy to use and no mess.

• Protects and prolongs the equipment life time(Fairway, 2011)

7.3 Problems

• Excessive turbulence that can generate harmful noise pollution

• Unnecessary energy consumption and waste of expensive compressed air

• Can be hazardous if used incorrectly (Newman, 2007)


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Castleknock golf course had a total of three compressed air guns operated by

one single motor located in a room adjacent to the air guns. The motor rating was

5.9Amps, single phase 220-240v

Figure 14: Compressed Air System


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Figure 15: Compressed Air Indicator

Compressed air was used on a daily basis. On average a golfer will spend in

the region on 120 seconds cleaning personal equipment. A survey completed on

December 1st 2012 showed that out of one hundred people, 74% of golfers use this

service.

In an average year at Castleknock Golf Club 44,000 rounds of golf are

completed. Using the survey statistics this meant that in an average year 32,560

people would use the compressed air system.

32,560 people a day at 120 seconds = 3907200 seconds or 65,120 minutes

Total time per year = 65,120 minutes or 1085.3 hours per year

1085.3 hours × 1.35Kw (motor rating) × 85% efficiency of motor = 1245.42Kw

per year used on compressed air.

Thus the cost of compressed air to Castleknock Golf Club per year may be

calculated as follows:

1245.38 Kw × 14.87 cents = €185 per year on compressed air.


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7.4 Recommendations

Most people think that compressed air has little or no cost. This is not correct.

Compressed air is one of the most expensive sources of energy used. There are a

number of ways to conserve energy with regard to compressed air.

These are as follows:

• Repair any leaks that may be present.

• More efficient use of the air compressors.

• Properly conducted technical dimensioning that would yield results in the

correct choice of nozzle, distance, and blowing angle. Which in turn can

give energy savings of between 30% and 50%(Newman, 2007)

• Lower the pressure to reduce energy consumption


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8.0 Solar hot water system One of the significant energy users identified was natural gas, this fuel was

used for water heating, space heating & catering. The natural gas usage accounts

for 15.5% of the clubs total annual energy consumption and at present cost €11,000

annually. As we are all aware gas prices have risen considerably over the last 30

years. With this in mind it is important to try and invest in renewable energy sources

to ensure security of supply and to protect against further rises in fuel cost.

Average solar insulation levels taken from Met Eireann data for the Dublin

region are 2.56 kWh/m2/day, this was approximately 60% of the level achieved at the

equator so solar water and space heating systems can be very effective in Ireland.

To give an example using the Met Eireann figures a 40m2 roof area in Dublin will

receive 37,000 kWh annually. They do not require direct sunlight, diffuse radiation,

for example light deflected through clouds can still be effective.

Figure 16: Direct vs Diffuse Radiation & map of average solar irradiation in Europe (KINGSPAN, 2012b)

During the site visit we assessed the potential for the modification of the

currently installed space and water heating system to include solar heating. On

inspection it was noted that the site was particularly well suited to this form of

renewable technology for a number of reasons:


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8.1 Site location

The clubhouse is not over-shaded and the orientation of the dining area is

south facing to make the most of the sunshine. This along with the existing angle

and size of the pitched roof would allow for the installation of optimal solar collector

in terms of both size and position.

Figure 17: Optimal collector position & roof of south-facing clubhouse dining area

8.1.1 Existing Hot Water Demand

Members of the club enjoy fully featured changing facilities, there were

showers in both the male & female changing rooms to allow the gofers freshen up

after their round of golf before enjoying some downtime at the bar or in the

restaurant. These shower facilities were used regularly and the heating of this water

would account for a significant amount of the yearly gas spend.

8.1.2 Current Space Heating System

Solar systems are not recommended for traditional space heating systems

using typical panel radiators however the golf club uses under-floor heating. This is

particularly suitable for use with a solar heating system.


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Figure18: Underfloor heating loop (taken from: http://www.thewarmfloorcompany.co.uk)

A well designed solar water and space heating system could reduce the

annual gas usage significantly whilst also improving the clubs energy rating and

would lead to a reduction in co2. In addition this project would be beneficial to the

local economy; there are solar hot water heating equipment manufacturers in Ireland

such as King span and local suppliers creating jobs in the economy.

The installation of a solar water and space heating system would involve the

installation of either flat plate or evacuated tube collectors on the roof of the

clubhouse. The existing hot water cylinder would require replacement with a twin coil

cylinder which would allow for the heating of water via the solar collectors where the

collector temperature was at a useful temperature. The gas boiler could be used as a

backup heat source where the collector temperature was not sufficient. A pump and

control system typically forms part of the tank system.

Our recommendation would be to further investigate this technology and to

carry out a detailed study and cost benefit analysis for the implementation of this

technology at the club.


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9.0 Fuel usage A further significant energy user identified were the vehicles used for the

upkeep of the course. The annual fuel spend for these vehicles was €12,000 this

accounted for 17% of the energy costs, it was therefore an area that should be

investigated. Selection of green-keeping equipment and associated vehicles should

be made on the basis of fuel consumption and efficiency in addition to the other

normal selection criteria for this type of equipment.

There are currently a large selection of all battery and hybrid power walk

behind and ride on mowers and this technology is no longer a new technology. In the

green-keeping world of today it is now a proven and adopted technology. Major

manufacturers of green-keeping machines such as Toro, Eclipse, Jacobsen, and

John Deere are all offering greener and more efficient alternatives.

Figure19: Toro Greensmaster eFlex walk behind & ActionEco ride on greens mowers, both use li-ion battery technology (www.toro.com/eflex, www.actioneco.com)

In addition policies and procedures should be implemented to encourage staff

to reduce any un-necessary use of vehicles where possible. If some of the green-

keeping equipment was renewed with battery powered equipment a further

suggestion would be to install a solar P.V system on the generous roof space of the

maintenance equipment shed alongside the lighting panel option.


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10.0 Alternative options for charging caddy cars The Caddy cars used by the club looked like very good candidates for alternate

energy charging options. Examination of the battery type revealed a T1275 (Trojan).

This was described in the manufacturers Technical Manual as a ‘’ 12 Volt Deep –

Cycle Flooded Battery ‘’

Figure 20: Buggy rank

Figure 21: Trojan (T1275 batteries installed)

This particular line of batteries is specifically identified with supporting

renewable energy systems.(Trojan, 2012) Which in the manufacturer’s words

‘Require large daily loads where the batteries are cycled regularly’. Furthermore they

are ‘ideal for use in large off-grid photovoltaic (PV) systems.’


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Figure 22: (http://www.europower.ie/Renewable.htm)

The application in this instance would seem to favour a standalone system

where there could be a charging procedure carried out while the buggies were in

parking mode (SEAI, 2012). There were however complications. The buggies were

always used during the daytime for obvious reasons. Therefore charging could only

be carried out on a rotating schedule. This would not seem to be an insurmountable

obstacle as there were thirteen of the vehicles in total available. Peak periods of

usage (June, July) might necessitate combined charging with existing system and

the Photovoltaic unit. A very basic conception of what is involved can be seen on the

following YouTube demonstration.(YouTube, 2012)

Figure 23: (YouTube demo)

The option of buggy roof mounted panels was looked at but discounted given

Ireland’s limited solar resource. Smaller installations would not have the charging

capabilities for all day use.


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10.1 Machine shop lighting options.

The Golf club has a very large machine shop. As the name suggested the

majority of all plant used for maintenance on the course was both stored and

repaired here. One of the outstanding features of the shop was its Southerly facing

aspect, combined with its size. Shown below was a view of the 32 type T8 twin

fluorescent fittings used for lighting the entire area.

Figure 24: Machine shop lighting

While the large numbers of lights were impressive in display the actual lighting

level was quite low. Anecdotally it could have been placed at no more than the 250

Lux level. Given the aspect of the building the obvious use of natural lighting was

identified. The main obstacle to this solution came from a security source. It was felt

that lighting would involve windows which could be penetrated far more easily than

steel. Or at least that was the perception. There was a perimeter (1Metre) barrier

wall around the lower skirt of the building. This had apparently prevented movement

of stock after previous intrusions.


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A brief examination of the available roof lighting options made a number of

things very apparent. Firstly the movement of goods through the roof/ceiling was not

going to be a viable threat give the weight of the items in question.(small tractors etc)

Secondly the lighting panels referenced below could be of narrow profile and made

of glass reinforced polyester boards(GRP) in line with the EN1013-2

protocol(Kingspan, 2012a). Lastly there were the obvious gains from such a move.

The lighting seemed to be generally controlled. That is one on all on. Natural lighting

would vastly improve this situation.

Figure 25: Roof lights (GRP type)

Every workplace needs to be as good as it can be. Natural light goes a long

way to ensuring that. Shown above are roof panels which would allow typically 70%-

80% diffused lighting. This would increase solar gain and reduce glare within the

structure. Existing artificial lighting needed to be switched on every day summer and

winter when the machine shop was in use. In-plane lighting panels as shown above

negated that. Activities within the building were almost exclusively carried out in the

daytime. Repairs were carried out almost exclusively at the rear of the building. If

necessary the lighting enhancing panels could be concentrated there. The downside

as stated by manufacturers about a slightly greater heating loss through the

polyester boards did not even apply here. Cabins located within the machine shop

structure were used for latrine and canteen facilities localised heating installed there

took care of heating demands.


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11.0 Conclusion The energy audit on Castleknock Golf Course was a very interesting study.

The entire establishment could be described as a quasi-industrial come

entertainment entity. The reasons for this were not hard to find. The energy usage

was large and varied, and the key to understanding how to improve things was to

understand the complexity of that variation. On the one hand there was a huge

demand for powering water pumps, while at the same time the actual clubhouse

itself consumed even more. In trying to maintain the highest standards and provide

every possible facility for their customers the management had spared nothing to lay

on the latest and best. So when it came to cleaning golf shoes they installed a

compressed air facility. When providing a machine shop the option was taken to

provide a huge enclosed building with a security perimeter and internal lighting which

was the sole source of light. Within the clubhouse there were a multitude of light

fittings and high energy halogen bulbs. Outside there was a charging bank for the

thirteen golf buggies which were in almost constant use during the summer months.

Running concurrently with all of this there was a very large hot water demand. Again

in keeping with its policies the management was prepared to ensure that every

creature comfort be provided for its members. This meant shower and hot water

facilities at the touch of a button. If there had been a need to emphasise the

necessity for energy conservation then the 1KW outside sign light could have stood

as a metaphor.

The bills provided were indicative of large expenditures in three main areas, Gas,

Water, and Electricity. The audit group sought to focus analysis on these areas while

keeping a close eye on the necessity of keeping the comfort of the customers to the

forefront. There were limitations to what could be achieved in the final analysis.

Given the complexity of the golf club and its requirements there would be a very

good argument for doing an energy audit over a far longer period and using perhaps

recordable data loggers. However the group felt that there was still a good

opportunity to make some suggestions for improving the overall situation. Therefore

the suggestions or recommendations could be broken down into two main

categories.


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These would or could be described as obvious and aspirational. The most

obvious one was the replacement of lamps. There was a gain to be made here that

was self explanatory. Such a move would deliver payback in very little time and have

the additional benefit of being very much in keeping with a ‘green’ establishment (if

the pun could be pardoned). The second most obvious recommendation came from

a different quarter. There seemed to be confusion about the implications of

maximum import capacity and night rate electricity. A strong recommendation was

made for the inclusion of a night rate facility. The main argument against this was

that the greens needed to be watered at specific times during the evening (outside of

off-peak hours). Nevertheless it seemed pertinent to try and move those irrigation

hours on to the off-peak periods as much as possible, especially given the energy

consumption and subsequent billing. Moving on from this there was a number of

what might be called ‘middle ground’ recommendations. The first of these was the

solar option. This was a viable runner considering the existing under-floor heating

system. Best use could be obtained from this by using a solar arrangement to at

least supplement the water heating demand especially during peak hours. Similarly

the compressor alterations were there to be reviewed as well however the savings in

money terms were not significant. Therefore they would only be undertaken when

there was an entire renewal of the system. The lighting panel replacement could be

undertaken relatively cheaply and the payback could be achieved quickly if the

hurdle of intruder protection could be overcome. There were options outlined to

alleviate that fear.

Lastly the aspirational recommendations were mainly confined to the options

concerning the Golf Buggies. The choices here were interdependent on a number of

different factors. These ranged from the current state of technology to an exact

breakdown of what could be realistically saved and/or financed to changes in the

battery changing regime. The variables were such that a more in-depth study would

be needed to determine the whether or not there was viability. At the very least it

would seem prudent to look at them. In conclusion it would have to be said that there

was good scope for savings and even if not undertaken immediately at least to bear

in mind the possibilities.


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12.0 Photo’s of Group Members on Site

Figure 26: Groupmembers on site, Rory, Gareth, Paul & Paul


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13.0 Bibliography

FAIRWAY. 2011. Professional Footwear Cleaning System. Available: http://www.golf-shoe-cleaner.com/ [Accessed 30/11/2012].

KINGSPAN. 2012a.Building Design Rooflights Available:

http://panels.kingspan.in/Roof-Light-%7C-Metal-Roof-Panels-%7C-Rooflight-Panels-%7C-India--13270.html [Accessed 18/11/2012].

KINGSPAN. 2012b. The Complete Solar Package. Available:

http://www.kingspansolar.com/products/solarpackage.aspx [Accessed 1/12/2012].

NEWMAN. 2007. Silvent advanced air technology nozzles, safety guns, silencers.

Available: http://www.newmantools.com/silvent/index.html [Accessed 1/12/2012].

OFFICE,R.2012.Dublin City Council Water Charges:Available:

http://www.dublincity.ie/Business/WaterCharges/Pages/WaterChargesCalculate.aspx [Accessed 228/11/2012].

SEAI. 2009. Energy Agreements Programme. Development of new Commercial

BuildingsEnergy Audit Methodology based on the EED principle [Online]. Available: http://www.seai.ie/Your_Business/Large_Energy_Users/Special_Initiatives/Special_Working_Groups/Commercial_Buildings_Special_Working_Group_Spin_I/CB_SWG_EED_Auditing.pdf [Accessed 25/11/2012].

SEAI. 2012. PHOTOVOLTAICS (PV). BEST PRACTICE GUIDE [Online]. Available: http://www.seai.ie/Publications/Renewables_Publications/Solar_Energy/Best_Practice_Guide_for_PV.pdf [Accessed 3/11/2012].

TROJAN. 2012. TROJAN High Capacity Batteries for Renewable Energy

Applications [Online].Trojan Battery.com. Available: http://www.trojanbattery.com/pdf/TRJN0159_RESeriesColl.pdf [Accessed 15/11/2012.

U-TUBE. 2012. How to connect an AKT Solar panel to a battery via a charge

controller. Available: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pA4mYQxb54 [Accessed 26/11/2012].


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14.0 Appendix 1 Gas Bill


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15.0 ESB MIC ESB Maximum Import Capacity Statement

‘We offer customers a connection designed around a specified capacity. The capacity of your connection is the total electrical loading for which your connection is designed. Capacity is measured in kilovolt-amps (kVA). A kilovolt-amp is similar to a kilowatt. The capacity level for customers is described as the Maximum Import Capacity (MIC).

We design our network to provide you with an electricity supply that is in accordance with a specified MIC. Business customers agree a level with ESB Networks according to their specific requirements.

Why is MIC important?

When applying for a connection, the most important decision is the capacity level you require. The capacity of your connection (the MIC) is an important figure for several reasons:

• It is the capacity that ESB Networks commits itself to deliver to your premises.

• It places an upper limit on the total electrical load you can use.

• It is a determinant for connection charges. For a detailed breakdown of these charges refer to Connection Charges.

• Your MIC may be too high or too low for your needs - either way it will cost you money:

o If the MIC is too high, you may be paying for more capacity than you require.

o If the MIC is too low, you may incur an 'Excess Capacity' charge.

How to estimate your capacity requirements

You must choose the capacity that meets your needs. (From our experience, it is almost always much lower than the sum of the kilowatt ratings of all the equipment you plan to install.) You should discuss your MIC with your electrical contractor / consultant.

Increase (or decrease) your MIC

If your load has increased and now exceeds the MIC for your connection, you need

to increase the MIC to cater for the increased load.

http://www.esb.ie/esbnetworks/en/business-customers/mic/mic.jsp


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16.0 Appendix 2 EED steps

Figure 27: EED (SEAI)

Documents

DONE Energy Audit Castleknock Golf Club