Energy Efficiency and Conservation Approaches in Institutional Buildings: The Riyadh Reformatory Case in Saudi Arabia

Ahmed Al-Ardan, Abdullah M. Al-Shaalan, Hassan M. Hussein Farh () and Abdullrahman A. Al-Shamma’a
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Ahmed Al-Ardan: Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, Riyadh 11421, Saudi Arabia
Abdullah M. Al-Shaalan: Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, Riyadh 11421, Saudi Arabia
Hassan M. Hussein Farh: Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
Abdullrahman A. Al-Shamma’a: Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-22

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive assessment of energy efficiency and conservation strategies in institutional buildings, using the Riyadh Reformatory Building (RRB) in Saudi Arabia as a case study. The analysis focuses on meeting the operational and safety requirements of the facility while aligning with the regulatory standards of the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) and the Saudi Building Code (SBC Part 401), particularly in relation to electrical installations and the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) labeling system. Through simulation and evaluation, the study demonstrates that replacing traditional lighting with LED systems results in a 74% reduction in energy consumption. The application of programmable temperature regulators further reduces annual cooling energy use by 5.1%, with associated cost savings reaching 6.2%. Additionally, the research highlights the significant influence of window properties, thermal insulation, and water heater controls on energy performance. Notably, adopting high-EER air conditioning units leads to a 28.4% decrease in annual cooling energy consumption. Collectively, the findings underscore the effectiveness of integrated energy management practices, including optimized building layout, high-efficiency systems, and smart control technologies, in achieving substantial energy savings and operational cost reductions in institutional settings.

Keywords: energy conservation; energy efficiency ratio; safety requirements; cooling capacity; cost saving (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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