Swansea University is using smart building technology and energy infrastructure upgrades to reduce emissions and energy waste as it works towards its net zero targets.
The university aims to achieve zero carbon from direct emissions by 2035, with a target of cutting emissions by at least 70% by 2030.
Working with Schneider Electric, it is fitting its Singleton and Bay campuses with digital systems designed to improve energy efficiency and operational performance. The programme has so far delivered £156,000 in energy and operational savings.
Building management and energy monitoring systems are providing data to support sustainability decisions and guide infrastructure upgrades. These include new bidirectional EV charging stations, solar power integration and a microgrid pilot using battery storage to supply buildings during periods of peak demand.
Occupancy monitoring has also helped reduce energy consumption in the Finance Building by 44.4% by identifying opportunities to change building use and switch off areas when they are unoccupied.
Further digital tools are being used to identify efficiency improvements and support proactive maintenance. The university also has access to round-the-clock technical support and smart monitoring systems using more than 500 AI-enabled algorithms.
The approach is helping Swansea University cut energy consumption while modernising its estate on its path towards net zero.
