Higher education needs are diversifying. Student intake is down, costs are up and the race to net zero is on. However, exactly how education providers decarbonise their estates is a complex challenge that must be managed sensitively. Sam Bird, Associate Director at property and construction consultancy EDGE, suggests there isn’t a one-size-fits-all model.
A key decision for education providers is whether to prioritise carbon reduction or energy savings. While some quick wins exist, decarbonisation is rarely straightforward, and due to cost, both goals often can’t be tackled simultaneously.
The focus is changing
In previous years, institutions poured resources into planning and constructing cutting-edge new buildings and facilities to help attract students and enhance reputation. These bold designs often paid off through increased applications and oversubscriptions.
Today, that trend is reversing. Many universities are experiencing a decline in applications, and in response, are shifting focus from state-of-the-art new developments to improving the operational efficiency and overall sustainability of their existing buildings.
The role of education
Decarbonising estates requires more than technical upgrades. Universities must also educate stakeholders – boards, academics, staff, students – on the trade-offs between energy and carbon savings. Engaging these groups in the broader climate conversation is essential to align estate strategies with long-term institutional goals.
Cost is a major barrier. Many universities have historically operated on ageing infrastructure, often reliant on fossil fuel-based heating systems. Transitioning to net zero, especially through electrification, requires substantial investment. Electrification typically involves replacing fossil fuel heating with electric systems, such as heat pumps, and upgrading infrastructure to support increased demand. This often includes installing a substation to ensure reliable power.
The main challenge arises when the existing power supply is insufficient to meet the new demands. In such cases, universities must engage with energy providers and local authorities early in the planning process to explore infrastructure upgrades and ensure a reliable energy supply. Fortunately, Government funding schemes are available to provide financial support for universities looking to implement low-carbon technologies and upgrade their infrastructure.
The case of the University of Leeds exemplifies this shift. We have been managing its move away from steam-based heating to a fully electrified campus. While this reduces carbon emissions substantially, it does also result in increased electricity costs.
Some universities also lack the physical space for additional substations, forcing them to find more creative and bespoke solutions. The core question remains: prioritise carbon cuts or reduce operational costs?
A balancing act for estate managers
The challenge for estate managers is striking a balance between short-term financial pressures and long-term carbon reduction goals. This is further complicated by the range of stakeholders involved, each with their own priorities and invested interests.
For example, academics may push for investments in ground source heat pumps to support research initiatives, while finance might be dependent on a particular focus around cost efficiency and return on investment. Meanwhile, operational teams must ensure that any changes do not disrupt core education services.
These decisions become even more complex amid falling student numbers, which tighten budgets further, and increasingly vocal students who demand sustainability from their institutions. This puts universities under immense pressure when considering how best to utilise resources and make financially sustainable decisions.
Given the unique challenges and constraints faced by each institution, tailored and well-structured decarbonisation strategies are essential. A phased, cluster-based approach to buildings can provide a practical and financially sustainable pathway to net zero.
Key steps include conducting a full energy audit, identifying immediate efficiency gains and setting clear long-term goals. Strategic collaboration with industry experts can help ensure that the chosen path delivers measurable carbon or energy savings.
The way forward?
Ultimately, there is no single solution to decarbonising higher education estates. But by identifying quick wins for energy efficiency, targeted long-term planning, inclusive stakeholder engagement, and smart investment, universities can move confidently towards a low-carbon future – all without compromising financial sustainability.
For more information please visit EDGE
For more decarbonisation/sustainability stories take a look at Energy & Sustainability Solutions magazine.
