What does the decarbonisation strategy mean for universities?
Earlier this year the UK government announced a new Industrial Decarbonisation Strategy. From the plans outlined in the £1 billion scheme, it became clear that the education sector will plays an integral role in the UK reaching its net zero targets by 2050.
This strategy is a step in the right direction. But for the country to progress further, we must have a clear and detailed understanding of our energy consumption. By prioritising energy efficiency, the average campus could save as much as £37,110 per year.
We take a look at how the decarbonisation strategy will impact universities across the country.
Low carbon infrastructure
A significant amount of the £1 billion government funding will go towards upgrades and maintenance of low carbon systems. This comes with various benefits. Implementing a low carbon infrastructure such as LED lighting or heat pumps can lower university energy bills considerably. Then there are the environmental benefits. Helping universities boost their green credentials and lead future generations by example.
Winchester University was the first UK university to be awarded funding by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). They used this funding to install renewables, switch to electric vehicles and implement energy efficiency measures.
Following these changes, the university reported it has reduced its carbon footprint by 65 per cent relative to the size of the estate. Tying in with the PSDS, the decarbonisation strategy is looking to fund more universities so that they can invest similarly.
Cost efficiency
With energy efficiency comes economic benefit. Some universities are putting off installing renewable energy sources for fear of the financial impact. However, the long-term gains hugely outweigh the initial ramifications. And with the help of government funding, this worry has been somewhat distinguished.
Universities can budget more reliably by embracing renewable power and clean energy tech. For example, integrating onsite solar generation, can give energy independence. And avoid steep non-commodity costs. A sustainable energy strategy also helps universities avoid unexpected fines by staying compliant with government legislation.
The scheme also promises to introduce a carbon pricing tool to assist in calculating carbon consumption. These measuring tools could potentially save £2 billion in annual costs. This will allow universities to advance climate solutions and reduce their environmental impact in a cost efficient way.
Building Management Systems
Having control over your energy is essential in becoming sustainable. While low carbon energy sources are helping the UK reach its targets, wasting renewable energy through inefficiency is still harmful. So, having extensive knowledge of your energy consumption is key.
With t-mac software clients can implement, amend and manage control systems at the touch of a button. Having control through our easy-to-use digital platform means energy and site managers can see peaks and troughs within energy usage around multiple sites. Making identifying areas of inefficiency much easier and green targets more accessible.
How can we help?
As we move towards a sustainable future, decarbonising UK universities is essential. For this reason schools, colleges and universities have become important leaders in preventing the further impact of climate change.
Our next-generation software gives users access to their energy data at the click of a button. By being able to identify high energy areas universities get to amend wasteful habits to reduce consumption and costs.
Get in touch today to hear more about our energy efficiency solutions.