Green Gown Awards 2017 - University of Chester - Highly Commended

Lights, solar, action!

The creation of the Energy and Carbon Lab two years ago has seen the University’s understanding and control of utility consumption, energy management and implementation of successful energy and carbon reduction measures grow.

Focussing on collaboration rather than imposition, the team has developed a clearer picture of the University's energy consumption than ever before, and invited key colleagues working ‘on-the-ground’ to come together to create solutions to our energy challenge. This has resulted in implementing a roll-out of LED lighting replacements combined with installing 411.8kWp of solar panels. The University has achieved savings of 3361 tonnes CO2 and avoided £848,909 in utility costs.

Top 3 learnings:

1 Shout about your ideas and plans! Use infographics to communicate easy to digest messages.

2 Involve premises managers, maintenance teams, they know their buildings and what the issues and opportunities are.

3 Technology is not enough on its own; engage with your community.

CO2t savings 2016/2017:

3361 tonnes CO2e (2015/16) Actual