Anglia Ruskin University Accelerates Path to Net Zero with Re:Fit Energy Overhaul

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is making significant strides towards its ambitious goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2045.

Through the innovative use of the Re:Fit framework, ARU has transformed the energy performance of its campuses, investing £2.38 million across three phases to deliver wide-ranging energy-saving measures. From LED lighting and solar PV installations to advanced building optimisation, the project has already cut annual carbon emissions by 361 tonnes and delivered substantial cost and energy savings—demonstrating how targeted investment can drive real change in the journey to decarbonisation.

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) committed to reducing their Carbon emissions and strive to be zero carbon by 2045. As part of this process ARU used the Re:Fit framework to deliver a range of energy saving measures across their building estate. 

The Challenge 

ARU’s key aims were to reduce the energy consumption of its property estate where financially viable, enhance student comfort and capital values.  ARU sought to achieve an energy consumption per sqm floorspace of 60kWh/sqm/year and five year payback.  ARU also targeted a cost per tonne of carbon of £208 over the project lifetime. 

The Solution 

ARU identified 31 properties in its estate, totalling over 114,000 square metres of academic, administration and residential floorspace.  Work has been delivered over 3 phases across three years with capital spend of £2.38million including VAT.   

We have ambitious sustainability goals at ARU including our 2045 zero-carbon target. Using the RE:FIT framework has helped us overcome barriers to accelerate and scale our decarbonisation activity, and is now helping us tackle the challenges of heat decarbonisation

Simon Chubb, Head of Sustainability, Anglia Ruskin University 

The Impact 

Significant energy efficiency opportunities were identified across two of ARU’s campuses, including the teaching buildings, halls of residence, a leisure centre, an eye clinic, and other university facilities. A comprehensive suite of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) were delivered with works including:  

• Pipework insulation 

• BEMS optimisation 

• EC fan replacement 

• LED lighting replacements 

• Solar PV 

• Cooling control improvements 

Project Outcome 

Across the three phases ARU’s environmental footprint has been reduced, as set out in the table below: 

ARU’s environmental footprint has been reduced annually by 361 tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to energy savings of 1.77 GWh, supporting the drive toward zero carbon by 2045. 

Upgrades, including optimising existing equipment to improve building performance and comfort for occupants; alignment with ARU’s zero-carbon roadmap; and delivering long-term carbon, energy, and cost savings across the universities’ estate, made optimal use of the available in-house funding.  

On-site generation of renewable energy was also implemented, consisting of solar PV, which resulted in 341.74 kWp renewable generation capacity and an annual £88,853 in financial savings.