University awarded major grant to deliver heat decarbonisation project across two flagship buildings

This ambitious initiative marks a landmark step in reducing the University’s carbon emissions and advancing its sustainability agenda.

The PSDS is run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix. The grant will fund the replacement of fossil fuel-based heating systems with low-carbon technologies and upgrades to the energy infrastructure at the Queen’s Park and Wheeler sites in the centre of Chester.

Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: “This is a landmark moment for the University and a clear demonstration of our commitment to tackling climate change through ambitious action.

“The success of this grant application reflects not only the technical rigour of our proposals but also the dedication and vision of our colleagues working behind the scenes. We are proud to be contributing to the momentum building across our city and region towards a more sustainable future.”

Lucy Fitzhugh, Executive Director of Estates and Commercial Operations at the University, added: “Delivering projects of this scale involves an extraordinary level of planning, technical detail, and cross-institutional collaboration.

“This funding empowers us to put innovative decarbonisation solutions into action and move significantly closer to a low-carbon future for our campuses.”

The three-year project will begin implementation later this year, with completion expected in 2028. It is anticipated to significantly reduce the University’s greenhouse gas emissions while creating a more resilient campus infrastructure.