Siemens is launching new green innovative solutions to reduce overall energy use, in partnership with the University of East London (UEL) in the UK. The aim is to wipe out the carbon footprint by 2030. Siemens will provide solutions to reduce overall energy use, to switch to renewables, as well as to produce low-carbon energy on-site at the UEL campuses in London’s Docklands and in Stratford.
In addition to achieving a zero carbon footprint for the University’s urban facilities by 2030, the collaboration aims to enhance the well-being of students and staff, include through the creation of new learning opportunities, as well as support a culture that harnesses the advantages of the digital world through the development of technology.
The zero carbon footprint plan focuses on four areas for UEL’s campuses.Introduction of RES and reduction of total energy consumption, support of the sustainable business, real-time energy data utilization through the creation of a relevant laboratory and talent emergence.
The first phase will immediately reduce carbon emissions by 10%, as well as the operating costs of all UEL buildings, by installing LED lighting and upgrading the Building Management System (BMS).A second workflow will focus on the design of sustainable energy technology, including solar panels located on rooftops and car parks, ground or water heat pumps powered by the River Thames, as well as electric vehicle charging solutions.
“We are committed to becoming a national and global leader in decarbonisation, taking into account the economic, social and environmental impact of everything we do. “With the triple collaboration of the university, the student community and industry, we are confident that we can achieve our commitment to a learning environment with a zero carbon footprint in which everyone can succeed. The carbonisation process will give our students the opportunity to lead the sustainability of tomorrow, as they will be exposed to the most modern way of thinking and the latest technology, guided and benefited from the industry’s experience, and gain a vital advantage in the labour market.”, said Amanda Broderick, Vice-Rector and President at the University of East London.
In a second phase, Siemens will support UEL in creating an innovation hub for local green energy businesses, giving students the opportunity to get in touch with the latest green technologies on campus. Students will also be able to enhance their skills through mentoring and internships at Siemens. Through their partnership, UEL and Siemens will integrate sustainability throughout the curriculum, allowing students to develop the skills they need to succeed in a green economy. The collaboration is also exploring the creation of a student laboratory that will have at its disposal university data in the context of teaching and research.
“This is an exciting time for the University of East London. We are proud to support its strategic goals with technological solutions, through a partnership that aims at zero carbon footprint.In addition to decarbonisation, this partnership demonstrates the additional advantages of using technology in such a journey, which among other things will be enriched by improvements in teaching and learning, will provide a better campus experience for students and staff, and will also offer the potential to create a positive impact on the wider community.”, commented Constantin Ginet, Global Head of Energy & Performance Services, Siemens Smart Infrastructure.