Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Upgrade Initiatives and the Solar Project Phase 2
SY 2022-23 through SY 2024-25

2024-25

Ateneo de Manila University has ongoing plans to upgrade Solar Project Phase 2 to enhance  energy efficiency, particularly among existing buildings. The project includes installing rooftop solar panels on buildings, such as the University Dorm, International Residence Hall, and Faura Hall, among others, with the objective of increasing the solar power infrastructure.

The initiative seeks to maximize energy output, to merge into the existing grid and enable real time monitoring, conduct site assessments, produce technical designs, and implement the necessary upgrades that will ensure that buildings meet environmental and safety standards.

Terms of Reference Solar Project Phase 2  (2024-25)

2023-24

The CCSH roof repainting project at Ateneo de Manila University integrates energy efficiency enhancement focusing on maintenance, cleaning, minor repairs, and heat-reflective painting.

Terms of Reference Proposed CCSH Roof Repainting

2022-23

Ateneo’s building upgrade plans for existing structures prioritize  energy efficiency through  repainting and restoring roofing sheets, with energy-efficiency paints such as the Boysen cool shades  and heat reflecting roof paint, improved screws, and comprehensive waterproofing.  This is particularly illustrated in the proposed repainting of the Manny V Pangilinan Hall and Rizal Library roof projects, which uses reflective materials  aimed at reducing heat gain, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

Terms of Reference MVP Hall Roof Repainting Project (Roof Repainting Program)

Terms of Reference New Rizal Library Roof Repainting Project (Roof Repainting Program)

CFMO's Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Reducing Wastage through Preventive Maintenance

Ateneo de Manila University, through the Campus and Facilities Management Office (CFMO) identifies various areas in which energy use and consumption may not be efficient in order to reduce and eliminate wastage.

CFMO implements routine energy reviews, specifically through semi-annual preventive maintenance services.  Regular energy reviews include  works inspection  and audits on the quantity, type, and condition of units, as well as cleaning of the system, testing, securing electrical connections, and tracking energy levels in operations. In addition, preventive maintenance includes reporting and making recommendations for mitigating energy wastage.

To illustrate,  in May 2023, CFMO embarked in converting and upgrading inefficient AC units to inverter-type AC units, assuring energy efficiency ratios (EER) of 12 or above.   Furthermore, it conducted energy reviews as part of its generator set preventive maintenance, which involved regular inspections, data logging, and identification of inefficient systems.  It conducted financial planning while  ensuring safety compliance. It conducted routine maintenance safety checks on all elevators, ensuring the prevention of energy wasting breakdowns.

CFMO has undertaken annual and ongoing energy reviews for SY 2023-24, and SY 2024-25 as  illustrated by CFMO’s preventive maintenance works.

Terms of References

TOR - Elevators (2023)
TOR - Generator Sets (2023)
TOR - AC (2023)

TOR - Elevators (2024)
TOR - Generator Sets (2024)
TOR - AC (2024)
TOR - Schmitt Hall (2024)

Empowering Sustainable Change: Ateneo de Manila's renewable energy initiatives

Ateneo de Manila University is committed to enhancing energy efficiency in its existing buildings. As of 31 March 2023, the university has initiated the Ateneo de Manila Solar Power Project in partnership with Mspectrum, Inc., with 0.41 MW already installed out of a potential 0.468 MW capacity. This project aligns with the university's Sustainability Policies and Guidelines 2024, prioritizing energy-efficient and ecologically designed standards in the built environment.

Ateneo has partnered with SolX Technologies Inc. and Shell Energy Philippines, which is a significant step toward renewable energy. This collaboration has led to a supply agreement that will enable the university to transition to 100% renewable energy, starting with the Loyola Heights campus. The transition, which began on 26 May, 2024, aims to increase the campus's self-produced renewable energy to 20% through Phase 2 of the Solar Power Project.

For more information see the Awarded Solar Projects as of 31 March 2023, Department of Energy; and the Ateneo website.

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

The University has put in place a number of efforts to lower energy use and promote environmentally friendly behaviors. The ADMU Solar Project (2019), which includes installing solar rooftop systems in eight campus buildings, is one such endeavor. The project intends to expand energy saving and efficiency initiatives. Energy recycling and conservation guidelines from the Ateneo Institute of Sustainability also encourage sustainable behavior and increase awareness. Through Clean Energy Living Laboratories (CELLs) project, the Ateneo School of Government has also contributed to the conversation on clean energy.

Efficient Energy Management: Ateneo de Manila University's Upgrades to Campus Facilities and Systems

Ateneo de Manila University's Campus Facilities and Management Office has plans to upgrade existing buildings to higher energy efficiency. The actions taken include making energy efficiency a priority for the university. The Equipment Terms of Reference (TORs) indicate that the university has implemented measures such as repairing chiller pumps, replacing old AC units with more efficient ones, and implementing regular preventive maintenance for various buildings and facilities to ensure AC systems operate efficiently.

Based on the Terms of Reference (TOR), Ateneo de Manila University has considered energy efficiency for both new building construction and existing building improvements. The TOR requires that new buildings be oriented to minimize solar exposure and heat gain. Roof paints and coatings with infrared-reflecting pigments also reduce building heat buildup. Non-irritant and non-toxic roofing insulation creates a barrier to heat gain. At the same time, thermal glazing of the external window and door glass minimizes the load on cooling equipment. The proper design of building envelope openings allows natural light and air circulation, while AAC blocks will be introduced as an alternative to concrete hollow blocks for significant construction projects.