Developing a 3D GIS Model to Visualize Campus Building Energy Consumption

Keywords: Campus Sustainability, Building Energy Use, 3D GIS, GIS Dashboard, Web-Based GIS
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 08:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 09:20 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 38

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to create a 3D GIS model capable of visualizing the energy (gas and electricity) consumption of West Chester University's 39 campus buildings and facilities, which can then be shared and explored publicly via a webpage. In conjunction with a traditional 2D GIS dashboard/app, this 3D model aims to enable the university community and the general public to monitor monthly electricity and gas consumption in an intuitive and visually appealing manner. For instance, the height of a building in the 3D model is calculated and displayed as the amount of energy consumed by the building (kWh per square foot) for a month. It also enables a direct/visual comparison between the green (LEED) and non-LEED buildings on campus. This model can be updated regularly, and the university community and the public will also be able to view previous monthly changes. It also intends to combine the existing University's tree database, which can generate additional data/information on the tree canopy effect on neighboring campus buildings and facilities, including how much energy may have been saved by the trees. Due to the potentially wide distribution and accessibility of this web-based model, the project can help raise university community awareness of campus sustainability strategies and plans regarding lighting, heating/cooling, windows/doors, computers, and other equipment used in campus buildings and facilities.