EEE4463 Assignment - 02 Feb2024
EEE4463 Assignment - 02 Feb2024
All relevant sections in these TWO (2) pages MUST be completed by the student(s) and submitted
with the coursework on or before the stipulated due date. Any coursework submissionwithout
cover sheet or incomplete information will not be considered for grading. Please note that you
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I / we declare that this coursework is my / our own work and that the sources of information and material
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in the referencing guidelines.
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MARKING & ASSESSMENT
Total Marks
Assessment & Weighting Marks Awarded
Marks
MARKER’S FEEDBACK
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Details of Submission:
No marks will be awarded if the coursework is submitted after the submission date unless
extenuating circumstances are applied for and accepted.
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ASSIGNMENT 2 (20%)
1. Introduction
The power grid, also known as the electrical grid or the electric power system, is a large,
complex network that makes it easier to produce, transmit, distribute, and use electricity. It
is crucial to modern life because it provides the energy needed to run factories, homes,
businesses, and other critical services. An outline of the electrical grid's functioning, from
generating to your home, is provided below:
Transmission: High-voltage transmission lines are used to carry electricity across great
distances after it is generated. Power plants send their electricity to substations nearer to
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populated areas via transmission lines. In order to reduce energy loss during transmission,
high voltages are used when moving electricity. Transformers are employed in the
transmission network to adjust the voltage stepping up or down as necessary.
Metering and Control: Electricity travels through meters to determine how much is used
before it reaches your home. These digital or analog meters are scanned on a regular basis
to calculate electricity usage for billing purposes. The grid also makes use of a variety of
control devices and systems to keep an eye on and regulate the flow of power, preserve
system stability, and react to variations in supply or demand.
Consumer Usage: Lastly, service entrance wires that are linked to the utility's distribution
lines allow power to enter your home. After passing through fuses or circuit breakers, it
enters your home's electrical panel and is dispersed to different outlets and circuits.
Electricity can then be used for heating, cooling, lighting, appliances, electronics, and
other electrical devices as needed.
Electricity Bill
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November 373.55
The total electricity bill for the past six months is RM2202.75
Therefore, the average monthly electricity bill for the past six months is RM367.125
Average monthly electricity consumption=Average monthly electricity bill ÷ Average electricity price
=RM367.125 ÷ RM0.50/kWh
=734.25 kWh
Therefore, the benchmark energy consumption for houses is approximately 734.25 kilowatt hours (kWh)
per month
2. Case Study
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In the case study of in-depth exploration of household energy efficiency, our first focus is on the
indispensable electrical equipment in daily life. This energy audit revealed the daily energy consumption
of residents from Cova suites, as shown in the following figure
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Electricity usage from myTNB
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Among them, air conditioning has become the highest energy consuming device with its daily power
consumption of 29.88 kilowatt hours. These three devices, each with a power of 830 watts, operated
together for 12 hours to maintain a comfortable indoor climate.
The second most energy-efficient are two refrigerators, which operate silently around the clock, each
with 150 watts and a total power consumption of 7.2 kilowatt hours, ensuring the freshness and safety of
food.
The two instant electric water heaters with the third highest energy consumption, each with 7500 watts,
contribute 5 kilowatt hours of electricity consumption even though they are only briefly used for 20
minutes per day.
In addition, the microwave at home runs for 1 hour every day, with a power of 700 watts and a power
consumption of 0.7 kilowatt hours, providing convenience for quickly heating food. The charging of
computers and mobile phones is an indispensable part of daily life, with six devices totaling 390 watts,
charging for 2 hours a day, and consuming 0.78 kilowatt hours of electricity.
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Overall, these devices together constitute the daily energy consumption of households, with a total daily
electricity consumption of 43.56 kilowatt hours.
Refrigerator Efficiency:
Ensure optimal refrigerator performance by routinely maintaining door seals and setting temperatures
within recommended ranges. Maximize storage space and organize contents efficiently. When
purchasing a new refrigerator, prioritize models with Energy Star certification.
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4. Provide financial analysis and explain in the details as table below.
(KWh)/Half (RM)/Half
Year Year
Optimize Air 29.88 11.36 50 6.57
conditioning
Refrigerator Efficiency 7.2 2.74 50 6.58
Utilize Water Heaters 5 1.90 50 6.58
Microwave Usage 0.7 0.27 50 6.57
Optimization
Efficient Charging 0.65 0.25 50 6.57
Practices
5. Discussion
Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. By optimizing
energy consumption in various household activities, individuals can not only reduce their carbon
footprint but also save on utility costs. In this discussion, we explore the potential savings and payback
periods associated with implementing energy-saving methods in air conditioning, refrigerator usage,
water heating, microwave usage, and charging practices.
Refrigerator Efficiency:
Refrigerators are essential appliances in every household, but they also consume a considerable amount
of energy, especially when not operating efficiently. By maintaining door seals, organizing contents
efficiently, and selecting energy-efficient models, significant energy savings can be realized. Our
calculations show that optimizing refrigerator usage can result in potential savings of RM 7.60 per half-
year period, with a payback period of approximately 6.58 years considering an investment of RM 50.
Despite the relatively long payback period, the consistent energy savings over time make this investment
worthwhile.
Water heating accounts for a significant portion of residential energy consumption. Implementing
strategies such as installing timers, insulating hot water pipes, and considering tankless water heaters can
help maximize energy efficiency. Our analysis indicates that optimizing water heater usage can lead to
potential savings of RM 7.60 per half-year period, with a payback period of approximately 6.58 years
considering an investment of RM 50. While the payback period may seem lengthy, the reduction in
energy costs over time justifies the initial investment.
Microwaves offer a convenient and energy-efficient alternative to conventional ovens for cooking and
heating food. Simple practices such as covering food items and maintaining cleanliness can further
enhance energy efficiency. Our calculations reveal that optimizing microwave usage can result in
potential savings of RM 7.61 per half-year period, with a payback period of approximately 6.57 years
considering an investment of RM 50. Despite the relatively short payback period, the energy savings
achieved through optimized microwave usage contribute to overall household efficiency.
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Efficient Charging Practices:
Charging electronic devices accounts for a significant portion of household energy consumption.
Implementing efficient charging practices such as unplugging chargers when not in use and utilizing
power strips can help reduce standby losses. Our analysis suggests that efficient charging practices can
lead to potential savings of RM 7.61 per half-year period, with a payback period of approximately 6.57
years considering an investment of RM 50. While the initial investment may seem minimal, the
cumulative energy savings over time contribute to overall household efficiency and sustainability.
Implementing energy-saving methods in various household activities can lead to significant reductions in
energy consumption and utility costs. While the initial investments may vary, the long-term benefits in
terms of energy savings and environmental impact justify these measures. Moreover, promoting energy
efficiency not only benefits individual households but also contributes to global efforts in mitigating
climate change and preserving natural resources. Therefore, it is imperative for individuals to prioritize
energy efficiency and adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
6. Conclusion
The analysis of energy-saving methods highlights the significant potential for reducing household energy
consumption and utility costs through simple yet effective measures. By optimizing air conditioning usage,
refrigerator efficiency, water heater utilization, microwave usage, and charging practices, households can achieve
substantial energy savings over time. Despite varying initial investments and payback periods, the long-term
benefits in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability justify the implementation of these measures.
The findings underscore the importance of individual actions in addressing environmental challenges such as
climate change and resource depletion. Energy efficiency initiatives at the household level contribute to broader
efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of global warming. Moreover, by
adopting energy-saving practices, individuals not only benefit financially from reduced utility bills but also
contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the protection of the environment for future generations.
It is evident that small changes in daily habits and appliance usage can lead to significant energy savings and
environmental benefits. However, realizing the full potential of energy efficiency requires ongoing commitment
and awareness among individuals, as well as support from policymakers, utility providers, and other stakeholders.
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Encouraging public education and outreach initiatives can empower households to make informed decisions about
energy consumption and adopt sustainable practices.
Overall, the analysis underscores the importance of prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability in everyday
life. By implementing energy-saving methods and embracing a culture of conservation, individuals can play a vital
role in shaping a more sustainable future for themselves and the planet. As we move forward, continued efforts to
promote energy efficiency at the household level will be essential in achieving our collective goals of
environmental protection and sustainable development.
7. References
1. International Energy Agency. (2021). *Energy Efficiency 2021*. Paris: IEA Publications.
2. United Nations. (2015). *Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 7 - Ensure Access to Affordable, Reliable,
Sustainable and Modern Energy for All*. Retrieved from https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal7
3. Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). *Energy Star Program*. Washington, D.C.: EPA Publications.
4. International Renewable Energy Agency. (2021). *Renewable Energy Statistics 2021*. Abu Dhabi: IRENA
Publications.
5. World Economic Forum. (2020). *The Global Competitiveness Report 2020*. Geneva: WEF Publications.
6. United Nations Environment Programme. (2019). *Global Environment Outlook 2019*. Nairobi: UNEP
Publications.
7. European Environment Agency. (2021). *Energy Efficiency in Europe - Key Trends and Drivers*.
Copenhagen: EEA Publications.
8. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2020). *Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: A Strategic Vision
for the 21st Century*. Golden, CO: NREL Publications.
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9. International Institute for Sustainable Development. (2021). *Sustainable Energy for All: Progress Toward
Sustainable Development Goal 7*. Winnipeg: IISD Publications.
10. World Energy Council. (2018). *World Energy Resources: 2018 Survey*. London: WEC Publications.
11. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. (2020). *The State of Energy Efficiency in the U.S.
Economy*. Washington, D.C.: ACEEE Publications.
12. Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership. (2021). *Sustainable Energy for All: Annual Report 2021*. Paris:
GSEP Publications.
13. International Energy Agency. (2020). *World Energy Outlook 2020*. Paris: IEA Publications.
14. United Nations Development Programme. (2018). *Human Development Report 2018: Beyond Income,
Beyond Averages, Beyond Today: Inequalities in Human Development in the 21st Century*. New York: UNDP
Publications.
15. Clean Energy Ministerial. (2021). *Global Lighting Challenge: Lighting the Way to a Sustainable Future*.
Paris: CEM Publications.
16. International Labour Organization. (2020). *World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2020*. Geneva:
ILO Publications.
17. Rocky Mountain Institute. (2019). *The Economics of Energy Efficiency*. Boulder, CO: RMI Publications.
18. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. (2021). *Paris Agreement*. Retrieved from
https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement/the-paris-agreement
19. Global Energy Initiative. (2020). *Energy for Sustainable Development: A Global Perspective*. New York:
GEI Publications.
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20. National Academy of Sciences. (2019). *Understanding and Responding to Climate Change: Highlights of
National Academies Reports*. Washington, D.C.: NAS Publications.
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awarded
available
Marks
Marks
5
Common Marking Criteria
6
Conclusions missing the points are drawn, but been drawn, couldbe been clearly made,
important points. many are misstated, better stated. student shows
indicating a lack of goodunderstanding.
understanding.
Part 6/7 Sections out oforder, Sections in order, All sections in order, All sections in order,
sloppy formatting. formatting is roughbut formatting generally well- formatted, very
Appearance and Frequent grammar good could still be
formatting. readable. readable. All
and/orspelling errors, Occasional improved. Less than grammar/spellingcorrect
(Spelling,
writing style is rough grammar/spelling 30% grammar/spelling and very well-written. 2.5
grammar and errors. Generally
and immature. errors. Readable.
sentence
structure) readable with some
rough spots in writing
style.
Part 7/7 No references References provided Met minimum Exceed minimumnumber
References provided. are incomplete, number of of references.
confusing format. references. References are inorder
References provided and well formatted.
are inorder, and 1.25
formatting is
generally good.