Decarbonising our estate

In 2022 we developed our Swansea University Decarbonisation Action Plan in partnership with the Carbon Trust, committing us to being net zero (for Scope 1 and 2 emissions) by 2035.

The plan sets out a series of essential interventions across our estate over a 12-year period, focused on reducing emissions, while improving the performance and resilience of our buildings.

Current Initiatives

Welsh Government funding is supporting delivery of our decarbonisation action plan through a programme of priority carbon reduction projects.

Decarbonising our Energy Centre and District Heating Network

We are overhauling our existing gas-fired Energy Centre to introduce large-scale air source heat pumps and thermal storage tanks to provide more efficient, renewable heating across campus. The project also includes refurbishment of the building envelope and replacement of pipework to improve thermal performance and reliability. This will create Wales’ first large-scale, fuel-free heat pump-derived district heat network.

Campus Enhancements

The project will see a major overhaul of key buildings, including Margam Building, Union House and the Faraday Building, with upgrades to insulation, windows, heating and ventilation, to lower carbon emissions and maximise heat retention, and to connect heating to the district heating network.

LED Lighting

Smart energy efficient LED lighting is being rolled out across our campuses to reduce carbon emissions and improve the reliability, efficiency and comfort of our environments.

Timeline to a Greener Estate

The current programme of improvements is being delivered in multiple projects and phases.

Please note: timelines are indicative and may be subject to change as projects progress. Images are conceptual and also subject to change.

For more information about our campus developments, please email us.

Find out more about our sustainability, climate and nature positive work