An Important First Step in our Journey to net zero carbon

The University is investing into 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

 Building
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 Blks
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 University of Birmingham's Edgbaston and monitors showing graphs and various readouts

Description of these technologies

Investment into 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 are 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 spotting possible issues before they become a major problem, this will help to 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 for this major energy efficiency project with support from the University’s Estates Office and IT Services.

Deploying these five technologies the University will see a 5% reduction in carbon emissions, which is the equivalent of approximately 2,856 tCO2.

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