The Net Zero Energy Centre will house an innovative array of air and water source heat pumps. When complete, it will help to virtually eliminate the use of gas to heat the Lancaster campus.

A key milestone was reached this week as a groundbreaking event was held at the site of the University’s new Net Zero Energy Centre.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Andy Schofield led the event which brought together members of the University community including the project team, researchers, the contractor, and suppliers.

Professor Schofield said: “The new Net Zero Energy Centre, expanded heat network, and solar PV farm are all crucial steps in fulfilling the University’s commitment to reducing energy related carbon emissions from electricity and heating to net zero by 2030, and our aim to be net zero from all other emissions by 2035. The ongoing projects, delivered by energy partners Vital Energi, exemplify Lancaster’s forward-thinking approach, ensuring that future generations can benefit from a cleaner, greener campus while continuing to support groundbreaking research in renewable energy.”

The new energy centre is projected to generate 39 gigawatt hours (GWh) of low carbon energy, enough to heat 95% of campus buildings.

To carry the heat across campus, 6.5km of additional district heating pipework is being installed, adding 247 campus buildings to the network and expanding coverage from approximately 65% to 95% of campus buildings.

The centre will also include 1,500 cubic metres of thermal stores which will supplement the new heat supply and help ensure consistent heat during peak times of the day.

In addition, the energy centre will incorporate a visitor facility. This will feature an educational meeting room for visitors from the University and other universities, local schools and community groups with an interest in sustainable energy, specifically heat pump technology.

Delivered in partnership

The project is being delivered by local, renewable energy company, Vital Energi. Located in Blackburn, Lancashire, Vital Energi are industry leaders in low carbon energy solutions, and are delivering the Net Zero Energy Centre project as well as the new Solar Photovoltaic farm at Lancaster University’s Hazelrigg site.

Scott Lutton, Regional Director, at Vital Energi said: “The new energy centre, utilising air and water source heat pump technology will save 2,700 tonnes of carbon annually, making a significant contribution to Lancaster University’s journey towards carbon neutrality. As part of this project, we have worked closely with Lancaster University and AECOM to engage and raise awareness of the benefits of the energy centre with the Lancaster University community, through career events, outreach, and skills development initiatives. Additionally, Vital Energi, the University, and AECOM have committed to creating 42 local jobs, 73 UK-wide positions, and providing 12 apprenticeships and graduate opportunities, further strengthening our ties with the wider Lancaster community.”

More information

You can find more information on the Net Zero Energy Project webpages.

The project is expected to be complete in early 2027.