Our journey to net zero carbon

The University is investing in the first phase of a major energy efficiency project that will help the University reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions and will mark the first phase of the University’s transition to net-zero carbon.

The first phase of the major energy efficiency project (commonly referred to as ‘Tranche 1’ or 'T1') is made up of the top 25 energy-intensive buildings on the Edgbaston campus.

Tranche 1 buildings list

  • Metallurgy & Materials
  • Engineering (Mechanical & Civil)
  • Muirhead Tower
  • Sport & Fitness
  • Gisbert Kapp Building
  • North East Car Park
  • Institute for Biomedical Research
  • University House (old and 1st extension, not new extension)
  • Chemical Eng. - New & Old Blocks
  • Medical School Extension
  • Education
  • School of Sport & Exercise Science
  • Aston Webb Domes & Semi-Circle
  • Poynting Physics
  • Physics East
  • Physics West
  • Aston Webb Great Hall Block
  • The Wolfson Centre for Medical Education
  • Watson (maths)
  • Aston Webb C Block
  • Aston Webb B Block
  • Aston Webb A Block
  • Computer Centre (Elms Road)
  • Henry Welcome NMR
  • Aston Webb Semi-Circle (West)
  • European Research Institute (ERI)

This major energy efficiency project began in 2021 and includes the implementation of 5* different categories of building upgrades, including: LED lighting, Enlighted Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and platform, Building Management Systems (BMS), Energy Management Software and Thermostatic Radiator Valves.

Illustration showing the Edgbaston campus and a desktop computer screen displaying a graph

Description of these technologies

Investment in T1 of the major energy efficiency project at Edgbaston is needed to kick-start the first phase of the University’s transition to net zero and enable it to transform the way the campus is operated.

The implementation of these five technologies is guaranteed to deliver a material impact on the university’s emissions, as well as deliver significant cost savings.

Anonymous data and information gathered from these new technologies will help the University to identify potential building issues before they impact end-user experience. By identifying potential issues before they become major problems, this will help offset some of the reactive pressures on various University teams, enabling staff to better plan, prepare, and make informed decisions on how best to take corrective action.

Siemens will oversee the design and delivery of this major energy efficiency project with support from the University’s Estates Office and IT Services.

By deploying these five technologies, the University will achieve a 5% reduction in carbon emissions, equivalent to approximately 2,856 tCO2.

This will save the University money, ensure compliance and support the first phase of the University’s transition to net zero carbon.