- University Homepage
- Schools & departments
- Estates & Buildings
- News
- Energy Savings at the Ashworth Building
Energy Savings at the Ashworth Building
Ashworth Energy Challenge
A small project team of three staff from Transition Edinburgh University (TEU) has developed a new approach to engaging with staff and students in carbon reduction opportunities at the University. The pilot project, commissioned by the Energy Office, saw the team work closely with staff in cutting edge research in Biological Sciences Ashworth Laboratories during the month of February.
Through walkabouts, energy saving advice clinics, short talks and campaign emails the team spoke with Ashworth occupants, signing up a quarter to become participants in the energy reduction challenge, and establishing a Champions network of 15 committed individuals within the complex. The Champions network then investigated a number of energy saving potentials and identified that increasing temperatures of -80°C freezer to -70°C could produce savings of up to 190 T CO2e (£32,000) per year. Other initiatives include establishing an Ashworth Lighting Policy and switching off non-essential bench laboratory equipment.
Comparison of 2010 metered consumption data with 2011 figures highlights a 3% electricity reduction over the period of the pilot project, and with the Champions group continuing to pursue behavioural change within the buildings it is likely that further savings will be achieved.
This article was published on Jun 16, 2011