The University has become one of just a handful of universities in the UK to achieve certification to the international ISO50001 Energy Management standard.
The standard sets strict guidelines for how energy consumption is managed throughout the University’s operations; providing a framework to ensure energy is effectively managed for the long term. The certification covers Whiteknights, London Road and Greenlands campuses.
A key part of achieving this certification has been an estate-wide review of energy consumption and energy saving opportunities, to develop a prioritised programme of work to reduce the University’s energy use and carbon emissions. This is helping ensure the University’s ambitious plans to reduce its carbon emissions by 35% by July 2016 remains achievable, and that the University continues to build on the 23% reduction in its carbon footprint achieved to date.
A major focus for energy efficiency investment this year is in the University’s science buildings. Recently completed investment grade surveys have highlighted some good opportunities for investing on short payback energy efficiency improvements, while contractors have now been appointed for the planned £1 million efficiency overhaul to the University’s fume cupboards.
Meanwhile, the new district heating system is providing efficient heat to 9 buildings on the Whiteknights campus, with a further 7 buildings due to be added this summer. In combination, this project is anticipated to cut a further 1,200 tCO2 from the University’s carbon footprint annually and cut annual energy bills by £250,000.
To get involved or make suggestions regarding carbon management or general environmental issues at the University, please email sustainability@reading.ac.uk
