The University of Worcester has been shortlisted for an award after reducing its gas consumption by 25% by over-hauling its 30 year old boiler plant.
The reduction equates to a £50,000 saving per annum and builds on the University's strong green credentials, which has placed it consistently in the top 5 sustainable universities in the UK.
The programme to replace the ageing infrastructure was delivered by property and construction consultants, Ridge and Partners LLP.
The University and Ridge have now been shortlisted in the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards 2018, West Midlands, in the category of Infrastructure.
Director of Estates, Mark Hughes, said: "The complex boiler plant on our St John's campus was inefficient and approaching the end of its serviceable life, with an increasing risk of failure the decision was taken to invest in a new energy centre capable of safeguarding a greener future.
"We are delighted that our efforts have led to significantly reduced gas consumption and a more comfortable environment for students, staff and visitors, particularly during the recent cold snap."
The University was ranked 4th out of 154 in the 2017 People & Planet University League of the UK's greenest universities and was the first English university to achieve EcoCampus Platinum status in June 2010. The university has now set itself the challenge of reducing its carbon emissions by 40% from the base levels it set in 2005.
The refurbishment of the energy centre took place in multiple phases over a five-month period spanning spring and summer. This ensured that the existing plant could be stripped and have new equipment installed without causing disruption to the university's core operations.
The University installed high-efficient condensing boilers from Worcester-based Bosch Commercial and Industrial.
Mr Hughes added: "This is a once in a generation investment in our infrastructure and we are extremely pleased with the delivered improvements. Not only do we benefit from a robust solution that is more controllable we also have highly efficient plant which is reducing our carbon emissions and saving us money.
"We are pleased to be able to work with Ridge and Partners LLP, who provided an excellent design solution, which incorporated a trusted Bosch boiler plant and a Building Management System control solution."
Ian Ravenhall, Partner at Ridge, said: "The challenge for Ridge was to undertake these major infrastructure improvements whilst not affecting the day to day operation of the University. Extensive design and installation planning ensured students and staff could go about their daily business unaware of the works behind the scene. We are really pleased with the outcome of the project - cost savings for the University will continue as more and more facilities are added to the new installation."
The University will find out on Wednesday, May 2nd whether it has been successful in the RICS Awards. If it wins the West Midlands award, the University will then go forward in the national awards, to be announced in October.