Committed teams at University of Leicester celebrate successful project and hit their winter heating deadline
We get behind the scenes at East Midlands university and discover how collaboration is key to delivery in the latest phase of a Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme project
Dynamic teams at the University of Leicester are celebrating a major milestone on their net zero journey, after successfully completing the latest phase of a Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme project ahead of schedule.
At Salix, we’ve been proud to support the university for a number of years, delivering a variety of funding schemes including the former Recycling Fund and the Low Carbon Skills Fund.
These investments are helping the university drive forward its ambitious target of reaching net zero by 2040 - ten years ahead of the UK government’s national target.
The university has already benefited from several phases of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, which is designed to help organisations cut carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.
This means that the buildings are not just better for the planet, but they are more enjoyable places in which to work, live and enjoy.
Most recently, the University of Leicester was awarded £200,000 under Phase 3c to deliver upgrades that are already making a tangible difference.
Stamford Court offers conference facilities at the University of Leicester
Photo credit: Salix Finance
The Phase 3c Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme project at Leicester University has been successful not just because the works were completed ahead of time, with the air source heat pumps operational before the heating season, but because it has demonstrated the power of excellent collaboration.
Our client support officer Michelle Yotcha went behind the scenes to see how the work is being delivered and to meet some of the people driving the university’s net zero mission.
Michelle said: “It was very beneficial and rewarding to see the project that we have been discussing for months come to life.
“The Phase 3c Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme project at Leicester University has been successful not just because the works were completed ahead of time, with the air source heat pumps operational before the heating season, but because it has demonstrated the power of excellent collaboration.
“These projects always work to tight deadlines, and it is communication, teamwork and operational efficiency that really make the difference. The work is a credit to the teams at the university.”
During her visit, Michelle toured Gilbert Murray House and Stamford Court - a teaching building and conference hall at the university - where energy-saving upgrades are already in place. These include:
- LED lighting upgrades
- Radiator replacements and enhancements
- Two new air source heat pumps
- Upgraded building management systems
As part of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme work, new radiators have been installed
Photo credit: Salix Finance
Beyond its own campus, the university is also working with partners across the county through Leicestershire CAN (Collaboration to Accelerate Net Zero) - a pioneering project designed to help local organisations work together to cut emissions.
The initiative will create a county-wide decarbonisation pathway and launch a new online platform, providing communities with tools and resources to accelerate their own climate action.
Energy saving upgrades include LED lighting
Photo credit: Salix Finance
Thank you to the University of Leicester for hosting our team and telling us more about your Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme project and your vision for the future.
