During a school energy audit, a student used a plug-in monitor and a thermal camera in the sports centre. Fig. 1 shows the main observations recorded on a c...
Question 1 Report
During a school energy audit, a student used a plug-in monitor and a thermal camera in the sports centre. Fig. 1 shows the main observations recorded on a cold evening. The changing-room lights were left on, heat escaped through a roof hatch, and a solar panel supplied electricity to a battery. The school plans to use the results in its energy-use enquiry before applying for a grant. Its aim is to cut bills without reducing access to sport or employment at the centre. The study is concerned with sustainable use of energy, not simply producing more electricity.
(a) Identify one observation in Fig. 1 that shows energy is being wasted. [2]
(b) State one item in Fig. 1 that can generate renewable electricity. [3]
(c) Describe how the battery could help the sports centre use energy more sustainably. [5]
(d) Explain why improving energy efficiency can help both the school and the national energy gap. [15]
Answer Details
(a) Energy is being wasted because the lights are left on. Heat escaping through the roof hatch is also acceptable. [2]
(b) The solar panel generates renewable electricity. [3]
(c) The battery stores electricity generated by the solar panel when generation exceeds immediate use. It can release this energy later, such as after sunset or when demand is higher. This reduces electricity taken from the grid and reduces wasted solar generation. [5]
(d) Insulating the roof hatch reduces heat loss, so less energy is needed to maintain indoor temperature. Switching off unused lights cuts unnecessary electricity use and lowers bills. Efficient appliances or LED lighting use less electricity for the same service, freeing money for teaching or sports facilities. Lower demand means fewer fossil fuels may be burned, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It can reduce imports of gas or oil, improving energy security. Cutting peak demand reduces pressure on the grid and makes power cuts less likely. These savings occur year after year, making energy efficiency sustainable over time. Any five developed points. [15]
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