Need for Energy Efficiency and Energy Audit of Buildings in Freetown

Abstract

In these modern times electricity is one of the major forms of energy that is mostly consumed and is also in high demand by the increasing global population in to which Sierra Leone is not an exception. As a result of the high demand competing for the low generation capacity of the utilities, the Ministry of Energy of the Sierra Leone Government administration, charged with the responsibility of generating and supplying electricity, is unable to meet this demand. The rationale of carrying out this research is to see how raising awareness levels on the significance of energy efficiency practices, as a recommendation through an energy audit process, would help bring a solution to how to meet the high electricity demand.A quantitative data analysis method was used in this research. 120 structured questionnaires were used in collecting data. From the results analysis, respondents agreed that energy efficiency practices in buildings around Freetown, capital o0f Sierra Leone, would reduce electricity consumption. Furthermore, respondents agreed that an energy audit in buildings around the city of Freetown would help in detecting electricity wastage in these buildings.From the research it is recommended that building owners installed energy efficient equipment during the construction of their buildings. Universities/colleges should make energy studies compulsory for all students entering their institutions, policy makers must recommend to government the reduction of custom duties on all energy efficient electrical products imported into Sierra Leone.