Transforming our campuses for a net zero future
As a world-leading STEMB university, we recognise the responsibility we have to reduce our environmental footprint and lead the way on complex challenges facing society.
Imperial is committed to reaching net zero for our scope 1 and 2 emissions across our campuses by 2040 and reducing scope 3 emissions as far as practicable.
The Net Zero programme is our long-term portfolio of projects to make that ambition a reality, through energy efficiency, low carbon and power and more efficient buildings.
These works are already well underway, from optimising Building Management Systems and embracing renewable energy, to expanding the use of solar power and rolling out LEDs.
On these pages you will find information about the programme’s purpose and timelines, current projects, and answers to frequently asked questions.
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We are committed to reducing carbon emissions across our buildings and operations, making informed and responsible choices about how we use energy and investing in solutions that support a lower-carbon future. Clare Hebbes Chief Property Officer
Programme timeline
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Core workstreams
To achieve net zero energy emissions by 2040, the Carbon Net Zero programme focuses on a number of interconnected workstreams across Imperial's estate.
Core workstreams
We are improving the performance of existing buildings through measures such as LED lighting upgrades, optimised building management systems to better control heating, ventilation and air-conditioning and upgraded metering systems to allow real time energy monitoring. These changes help reduce the amount of energy we waste, lower emissions and create more energy efficient environments.
Our research intensive STEMB operations require heat and power levels above the average for the sector. We are therefore upgrading ventilation systems to reduce energy loss while replacing fossil fuel-based heating systems with low-carbon alternatives, including air source heat pumps. This work also allows us to modernise our heat networks and reduce our reliance on less sustainable forms of energy production as we move towards net zero by 2040.
Alongside reducing energy demand, we are increasing opportunities to generate low-carbon electricity across our campuses. This includes installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems where suitable, such as Silwood Park Campus, and exploring other opportunities to support the use of renewable energy. Generating more clean electricity on-site helps reduce emissions and supports Imperial's transition to a net zero estate.
Achieving net zero requires significant changes to buildings to improve energy efficiency. This includes upgrading building facades, roofs and window systems to reduce energy loss and reduce solar gain.
Carbon Net Zero projects
The Carbon Net Zero Programme is being delivered through a range of projects across our estate. Find out more by exploring the project-specific webpages below:
Reducing energy demand
- Energy reduction in the Dyson Building
- BMS Optimisation in the Royal School of Mines (coming soon)
- LED upgrades across Imperial’s estate
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