University of Kent partners with Siemens to cut emissions by 50%

The University of Kent (UoK) is set to cut emissions by 50 per cent through a new carbon reduction strategy developed in partnership with technology company Siemens, as it continues to work towards achieving its net zero targets.

Developed following an Investment Grade Audit (IGA) undertaken to get a detailed assessment of the University’s energy performance, the strategy sets out a roadmap to reduce carbon emissions across its Canterbury and Medway campuses – home to over 19,000 students.

The first major step towards the reduction of energy consumption on campus will see the installation of LED lighting in all buildings and upgrades to all building management system controllers, as well as space optimisation and an updated metering system to maximise energy use across the estate. The plan also outlines an ambition to install an 0.74 MW rooftop solar PV array, which will generate more than 675,000kWh electricity each year. All of the zero-carbon energy generated on site will be consumed across the University’s campuses.

In 2021 the University of Kent agreed on an ambitious yet achievable target of reducing scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2040 and scope 3 emissions to net zero by 2050. The University’s aim is to reduce emissions by at least 50 per cent by 2030 compared to the baseline year of 2018/19.

Andrew Smyth, Head of Sustainability, SI-Buildings GB&I, Siemens UK and Ireland, said: “Decarbonising large estates represents a huge challenge for the higher education sector, and this type of collaboration will be vital in supporting institutions across the UK in achieving net zero. Our strategic plan puts the University on a path to eliminating emissions while reducing fixed costs, improving energy demand management and updating ageing infrastructure through digital transformation. This will not only reshape the University’s relationship with its campus estate but will form the basis of its efforts to achieve net zero through innovation and sustainable investment. We look forward to continuing to support the organisation on this journey in the years ahead.”

Georgina Randsley de Moura, Acting Vice Chancellor UoK added: “Our partnership with Siemens is central to our commitment to embed carbon reduction across our operations and place sustainability at the heart of our decision making. We have unique strengths as a university in tackling climate change and are determined to bring together the talent and endeavour of staff, students and the wider community to make a tangible impact. This includes developing an estate which is fit for the future, embracing modern technology and external partnerships where they can act as a catalyst to delivering our mission.”