Start on site as Lancaster University bids to ‘eliminate’ use of gas

Blackburn-based Vital Energi will deliver the £21m Net Zero Energy Centre, which will host an array of air and water source heat pumps.

The Net Zero Energy Centre was greenlit in June 2024, after the university lodged plans earlier in the year, seeking to put to work a £21.26m grant from the government’s Green Heat Network Fund.

Aecom is working on the project. Ground has now been broken.

The centre is projected to generate 39 GWh of low-carbon energy a day, enough to heat 95% of Lancaster University’s campus buildings.

Pipework, stretching more than six kilometres, is being installed across the campus to add 247 buildings to the network, expanding campus coverage from the existing 65%.

Scott Lutton, regional director, 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.

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“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.”

To ensure heating consistency, 1,500 cubic metres of thermal stores will be included in the centre. An on-site visitor facility will highlight the university’s sustainable achievements.

Work is scheduled to be complete by early 2027.

Lancaster University is also supported by a 53-acre solar farm scheme at its Hazelrigg site.

Professor Andy Schofield, vice-chancellor of Lancaster University, 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 ground-breaking research in renewable energy.”