Final Assignment

The purpose of this (3 person) group project is to put into practice several of the theories and concepts introduced in class. In other words, the outcome of your project will reflect how well you can delegate, work as a team, meet planned objectives, show leadership, and manage time.

Note that the projects you submit will be judged and graded against one another. The best submission will be given the highest grade. The remaining projects will be staggered in sequential order.

The Task

Your task is to conduct a basic energy evaluation in a select business. The business can be owned by friends or family.

Your completed two-page paper should answer the following questions:

1. Describe the business. What does it do? How big is it (in square meters)? How many people does it employ? What are its weekly hours of operation?

2. Determine the business's yearly energy bill. This can be done in two ways. The first is to ask for copies of the monthly utility bills (average them out to make your measurements easier). The second method (which is more difficult) is to estimate costs based on the energy requirements of the business (i.e.: the number and amount of electrical equipment the business has combined with the cost of electricity in the area).

3. List, count, and describe (in terms of energy) the number and types of light bulbs used in the business. Then, list, count, and describe the electrical equipment the business has(e.g.: office equipment, machinery, coffee machines, etc...).

4. Find energy-saving alternatives (i.e.: Energy Star rated) for every light and piece of equipment on your list. You may need to conduct a search on the Internet or visit an electronic retailer to complete this part of your report.

5. Start 'crunching' your numbers. How much money will it cost the business to switch to your energy-saving alternatives?

6. How much money will the business save by switching to your recommended alternatives? When will payback occur?

7. Using the Florida Office Building metrics discussed in class (and displayed in 'Background Information...' on this website), estimate how much money the business can save by reducing the heat load caused by inefficient light bulbs and equipment.

8. Can the business you're studying also save money if it incorporates skylights, energy saving windows, increases insulation, etc...)? If so, show how this is possible - and determine the payback period.

9. If possible, briefly explain the business's reaction to your project. Was it enthusiastic or skeptical?

Please keep in mind that your final report must:

1. be no more than 2 pages
2. be written with no spelling or gramatical mistakes
3. be accurate and clear
4. have the breadth and depth of a professional report (i.e.: no guesswork)

Due date: Tuesday, the 9th of June (16:00 hrs)
Submission point: the instructor's mailbox in the BBA office

DO NOT SUBMIT YOUR REPORT via E-MAIL!!!

GOOD LUCK!