Buildings in the UK make up almost half of the total CO₂ emissions in the country. So, it is important that individual businesses understand where they can best save money and energy. Including schools and universities.

Schools and universities generate more than 2% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions and 15% of the country’s total public sector emissions. Communal energy has the potential to revolutionise the education sector’s energy, heat and finances.

Universities across the country, and their students are interested in decarbonising heat both on and off-campus. And for this reason, communal energy could be an efficient and effective solution.

So, what benefits come from universities incorporating communal energy?

Increased efficiency

Also referred to as Combined Heat and Power (CHP), communal heating systems utilise heat to be as efficient and effective as possible. Conventional heating systems consistently waste a large amount of energy and heat when fuel is burned.

By generating heat and power simultaneously, CHP can reduce carbon emissions significantly. Sometimes by up to 30% compared to the separate means of conventional generation via a boiler and power station. This increase in efficiency also means a reduction in environmental impact. And with a growing eco-conscious generation of young adults joining universities around the UK, it is essential that universities lower their emissions levels.

Cuts down on costs

An on-site CHP installation will typically generate electricity from natural gas at a cheaper rate than you can procure it from the grid. This is because wholesale gas prices tend to be lower than power prices.

To maximise the overall efficiency of CHP systems and ensure the availability of power at all times, businesses use both self-generated and grid electricity supplies. This gives businesses the flexibility to draw on grid power when it is cheapest and to use their self-generated power at peak times. This means that they can avoid purchasing network power during the most expensive hours, such as during ‘triad’ periods, when prices are vastly inflated.

Reducing eco-anxiety

As the UK nears net zero targets, it is essential that organisations within every sector become efficient. Becoming energy efficient through using less energy is the most effective way to reduce carbon emissions and put your students’ minds at ease.

Climate concerns among young adults have been increasing over the past few years. As countries around the world experience significant weather abnormalities, more people are reporting feelings of climate anxiety. Young adults in universities around the UK are now coming together to protest and look for solutions to the growing climate crisis. But it is also up to universities to do their part to reduce emissions and calm the worries of their students.

As the climate crisis continues to accelerate, there has been a growing focus on renewable energy. While this is a crucial aspect, it is equally important that we manage our existing energy supplies sustainably. Technology like Internet of Things allows universities to get to grips with new ways of generating energy, whilst also reducing waste and cutting unnecessary costs.

How can Monarch help?

With the pressure to become sustainable, knowing where to start can be difficult and confusing. But understanding your energy consumption is the first step towards reducing it. Without that vital data, becoming sustainable is impossible.

At Monarch, we don’t underestimate the power of energy efficiency. With our expert team and smart monitoring and metering services, we can help our clients to become as efficient as possible. We can help to audit and monitor your energy usage, identifying and suggesting solutions for areas of waste.

Get in touch today to hear more on how Monarch can help your school, college, or university on the road to sustainability.