B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology is committed to advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) by ensuring universal access to reliable, affordable, and modern energy for all within our campus community. Through energy-efficient building upgrades, smart energy management, and the integration of on-site renewable energy, we strive to reduce energy demand, lower operating costs, and improve indoor environmental quality for students, faculty, and staff. Our ongoing initiatives—ranging from LED retrofits and inverter-driven HVAC systems to cloud-based controls and solar installations—reflect a clear dedication to sustainable development, resilience, and leadership in energy stewardship.
A. Statement of Policy
Issue: 04; Revised on 2023
| Policy Created on | July 2009 |
| 1st Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 27th October 2017 |
| 2nd Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 31st March 2021 |
| 3rd Revision amended on | IQAC Meeting held on 16th June 2023 |
Responsible Executive : Director (IQAC)
Responsible Office : Internal Quality Assurance Cell, Estate Office, and SDG Cell
Contacts : Registrar, Director (IQAC)
7.1 STATEMENT OF POLICY
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology is committed to divesting from carbon-intensive energy industries, particularly coal and oil, to promote sustainable energy practices and contribute to the global efforts to combat climate change. This policy aims to:
- Ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services.
- Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
- Double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
- Enhance international cooperation to facilitate access to clean energy research and technology.
- Promote investment in energy infrastructure and clean energy technology.
7.2 REASON FOR THIS POLICY
This policy is established to minimize the Institute’s carbon footprint by reducing investments in fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources. By divesting from carbon-intensive industries, the Institute aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and supports the transition to a sustainable energy future.
7.3 RESPONSIBILITIES
7.3.1 Policy Principles
The Institute shall implement the following principles to ensure effective divestment from carbon-intensive energy industries:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of current investments to identify carbon-intensive assets.
- Gradually divest from all investments in coal and oil industries within a specified timeframe.
- Reallocate funds towards renewable energy projects and sustainable technologies.
- Collaborate with financial institutions that prioritize sustainable investment practices.
- Promote transparency in investment decisions and publicly report on divestment progress.
- Engage with stakeholders, including students and faculty, to raise awareness about the importance of divestment from fossil fuels.
- Support research and development initiatives focused on clean energy technologies.
7.3.2 Dissemination of Policy
- This policy shall be publicly accessible on the Institute’s website to ensure transparency.
- Awareness programs shall be conducted regularly for all stakeholders regarding the importance of divestment from carbon-intensive industries.
- Updates on divestment progress shall be communicated through newsletters and reports.
7.3.3 Enforcement of Policy
- The Director (Finance) and their team are responsible for monitoring compliance with this policy and reporting on divestment progress.
- Any breach of this policy may result in a review of investment strategies and potential disciplinary actions as prescribed by the Institute’s code of conduct.
B. Promotion and Implementation of Energy-Efficient Renovation and Building Policy
The B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology (BSACIST) has established a comprehensive policy to ensure that all renovations and new constructions on campus adhere to stringent energy efficiency standards. This commitment is encapsulated in the Policy for Energy-Efficient Renovation and Building, which outlines the institute’s dedication to sustainable practices and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
Existence of Policy
The policy’s existence is clearly articulated in the Policy for Upgrading Buildings document, which emphasises the institute’s commitment to energy efficiency in all construction and renovation projects. The policy mandates that all new buildings and renovations comply with recognised energy efficiency standards, such as EDGE, IGBC, and LEED. This ensures that the institute meets regulatory requirements and sets a benchmark for sustainable development in the educational sector.
Evidence Provided
Evidence of the policy’s implementation is demonstrated through various initiatives and projects undertaken by BSACIST. The institute has successfully installed multiple rooftop solar photovoltaic power plants with a total capacity of 650 kWp, significantly contributing to its energy requirements while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources. Additionally, the establishment of solar water heating systems with a capacity of 39,500 litres and solar street lighting projects further exemplifies the practical application of the policy. These initiatives enhance energy efficiency and serve as a model for other institutions aiming to achieve similar sustainability goals.
Moreover, comprehensive simulation studies conducted for various buildings indicate potential energy consumption reductions of up to 10.5%, showcasing the effectiveness of the implemented energy-efficient technologies. Integrating advanced materials, such as AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks and high-performance glass, further supports the institute’s commitment to reducing energy consumption.
Public Accessibility of Evidence
The evidence supporting the policy’s implementation is publicly accessible, as the policy document is available on the institute’s website. This transparency ensures that stakeholders, including students, faculty, and the community, are informed about the institute’s energy efficiency and sustainability commitment. Furthermore, regular awareness programs and workshops are conducted to engage the community and promote energy-efficient practices, reinforcing the institute’s role as a leader in sustainable development.
Policy Review Period
The policy has undergone revisions to remain relevant and effective, with the most recent review occurring in 2023. This continuous improvement process reflects the institute’s proactive approach to adapting to new challenges and advancements in energy efficiency technologies. The policy’s history indicates a commitment to evolving practices, with previous revisions made in 2017 and 2021, ensuring that the institute stays at the forefront of sustainable building practices.
Summary
In summary, BSACIST’s policy for upgrading buildings to higher energy efficiency standards is a robust framework that promotes sustainable practices and provides tangible evidence of its implementation. The institute’s commitment to energy-efficient renovations and new constructions is evident through its various projects, public accessibility of policy documents, and regular reviews, ensuring alignment with contemporary sustainability goals. By fostering a culture of sustainability and innovation, BSACIST sets a precedent for educational institutions and contributes significantly to global efforts in combating climate change. Integrating innovative technologies and comprehensive energy management strategies further solidifies the institute’s role as a leader in sustainable practices within higher education.
Table VII – 1: Promotion / Implementation/ Evidence of Policy of Energy Efficient & Divestment Policy
| Upgrade buildings to higher energy efficiency. | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-722-2023-24/ |
| Carbon reduction and emission reduction process | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-723-2023-24/ |
| Plan to Reduce Energy Consumption | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-724-2023-24/ |
| Energy waste identification | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-725-2023-24/ |
| Local community outreach | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-741-2023-24/ |
| Renewable Energy Pledge | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-742-2023-24/ |
| Energy efficiency services for the industry | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-743-2023-24/ |
| Policy – Clean Energy Technology | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-744-2023-24/ |
| Low–carbon innovation | https://crescent.education/iqac-csi-sdg7-745-2023-24/ |
