Assessment of Carbon Footprint Associated with Electricity Consumption at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, India

Abstract Climate change and environmental sustainability have emerged as critical global challenges, highlighting the need to quantify and manage greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions across various sectors, including higher education institutions. Universities consume substantial amounts of electricity to support academic, research, administrative, and residential activities, making electricity-related emissions a significant component of their environmental footprint. This study assesses the carbon footprint associated with electricity consumption at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) Gorakhpur University, Uttar Pradesh, India, with a particular focus on Scope 2 emissions generated from purchased electricity during the period 2019–2024. The assessment was conducted using the Greenhouse Gas (GHGs) Protocol developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Monthly electricity consumption data were obtained from electricity bills provided by the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL), while emission factors were sourced from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Government of India. Carbon emissions (CEs) were estimated by applying annual emission factors to electricity consumption data. The study also evaluated the contribution of on-campus solar photovoltaic systems in reducing grid electricity dependence and associated emissions. The results revealed pronounced seasonal variations in electricity consumption and CEs, with peak values recorded during the summer months (May–June) due to increased cooling requirements and intensive campus operations. Lower electricity consumption was observed during winter months. A significant decline in usage of electricity and associated emissions occurred during 2020–2021 as a result of COVID-19-related restrictions, whereas a substantial increase was observed during 2023–2024 following the resumption of normal academic and administrative activities. Annual electricity consumption increased from 2,074,160 kWh in 2019 to 3,181,673 kWh in 2024, reflecting growth in the demand of energy in the campus. Solar Energy Generation contributed significantly to reducing net grid electricity consumption and CEs; however, a decline in solar energy production during 2023 increased dependence on grid electricity and resulted in higher emissions. The findings confirm that electricity consumption represents a major source of indirect CEs within university campuses and highlight the critical role of renewable energy in mitigating environmental impacts. Expanding solar photovoltaic capacity, improving energy efficiency, adopting energy-efficient technologies, and promoting energy-conscious behavior among campus stakeholders can substantially reduce institutional carbon footprints. The study demonstrates that integrating renewable energy with effective energy management strategies is essential for sustainable campus development and climate change mitigation. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, university administrators, and sustainability practitioners seeking to enhance environmental performance and support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action).