Aberystwyth University Energy Project Overperforming by Almost 30%

The £2.6m first phase of an energy saving project delivered by Vital Energi for Aberystwyth University has completed its first full year of operation and verified figures show it is now delivering 30% more energy and carbon savings than originally guaranteed.

The project saw Vital Energi upgrade the University’s energy systems at 20 buildings on the Penglais Campus, installing a range of initiatives including upgrades to almost 4,000 light fittings, Building Management System optimisation, improved air handling systems, chiller replacement, pipework insulation and energy efficient upgrades to laboratory equipment.

As part of an energy performance contract, Vital Energi guaranteed minimum carbon and financial savings.  The project was initially expected to reduce the University’s emissions by 802 tonnes, but the final verified figure for the year saw the project overperform and actually reduce emissions by 1,042 tonnes per annum.

Chris Yeo, Vital Energi’s Director of Low Carbon Solutions commented, “All RE:FIT projects come with guarantees to the client which ensure they get the results they expect.  This scheme has performed particularly well from an environmental perspective, but they have also made significant financial savings due to using less gas and electricity.

“We’re delighted to see the project is exceeding its guarantees, which is a fantastic result for the University as they continue their decarbonisation works.” Since Phase 1, we have returned to Aberystwyth University to deliver a 4,500-panel solar farm which will drive their emissions down by a further 500 tonnes per year, making another strong contribution to their net zero journey.

Phase 1 of the project has offset over 2.32million kWh of electricity and 2.16million kWh of gas and, in addition to the carbon savings, has reduced the University’s energy bill by £368k per year.