Coventry university connects to low-carbon heat network

21 April 2026

A new low-carbon heat network at Coventry University is now operational, with the institution saying it will cut more than 1,300 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.

The scheme links the university’s campus to Coventry’s district energy network, replacing gas-based heating in multiple buildings with heat supplied from the city’s Energy from Waste facility on London Road. The system is delivered through a 6.6km underground pipe network and is expected to produce around one fifth of the carbon emissions associated with natural gas heating.

The project has received nearly £13 million from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme and forms part of the university’s target to reach net zero emissions by 2030. University officials say the change accounts for more than a fifth of emissions previously generated by fossil-fuel heating on campus.

Eleven buildings have been connected, including teaching, residential and student facilities. The new infrastructure has been installed across several plant rooms to enable the transition from gas boilers to the district system.

Dr Clive Winters, pro-vice-chancellor for strategy and governance, says:

“This project has been a major undertaking and reaching this milestone simply wouldn’t have been possible without the patience and support of our staff, students and local community. The long-term benefits – for our city centre, net zero ambitions and future generations – make this a truly transformative moment for Coventry.”

The completion marks the first phase of the university’s integration into the wider network, with capacity for further expansion. As part of the works, additional pipework has been laid through the Hillfields area, creating the option for nearby homes and community buildings to connect in future.

The university says this could contribute to lower heating costs and reduced emissions locally, particularly in an area identified as one of the more deprived parts of the city.

Dr Winters adds:

“By moving away from gas and onto low-carbon district heat, we are immediately reducing our carbon emissions and strengthening the long-term resilience of our campus.”

Previous decarbonisation measures at the university have included the installation of around 800 solar panels and energy efficiency upgrades to campus buildings.

Image credit: Coventry University, showing Dr Clive Winters, Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor (Strategy and Governance) at Coventry University, and Ian Parker, Project Director at Bring Energy