DECARBONISATION OF HEAT STRATEGY AT RISEHOLME CAMPUS
UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN
BACKGROUND
Lincoln University has set a target of a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, against a 2009/10 baseline. To assist in reaching this target, the University wishes to develop a Decarbonisation of Heat Strategy for their Riseholme Campus, a 400 acre site a few miles north of Lincoln. It is not connected to the gas grid so all buildings are currently heated using oil or LPG-fired boilers, and minimal amounts of electric heating. The priority were the buildings around the Grade II listed ‘Old Hall’.
Energy efficiency measures were to be identified and costed, particularly building fabric insulation, and a range of renewable technologies to be considered for heating, including heat pumps and biomass boilers. In addition, on site electricity generation.
The information was to be used in an application for capital funding to the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
OUTCOME
An energy audit determined the existing annual energy demand for the site and baseline carbon footprint. During a site walk around, potential energy saving opportunities were identified focussing on reducing uncontrolled air infiltration, increasing roof insulation and alternative glazing options to lower heat loss through windows. It was calculated that energy savings of up to 35% could be made through the installation of new double glazed windows with loft or flat roof insulation to current Building Regulations standards.
The full range of renewable energy technologies were assessed, including heat networks, and those deemed suitable for the site subject to detailed analysis. The recommended solution to support the decarbonisation of heat, is the installation of air source heat pumps to replace the existing oil boilers located in Riseholme Hall and Wordsworth Hall. Initial concept designs have been developed and budget costs estimated for these two projects. A large solar PV on Wordsworth Hall south facing roof would generate electricity to offset the increased demand.
