University in £3.3m scheme to cut carbon emissions

Solar panels are being installed on two buildings at the University of Bradford

Solar panels are being installed on the roof of the University of Bradford, as part of a £3.3m project to make the campus more environmentally friendly.

The work is taking place at the JB Priestley Library and Student Central buildings.

It is the latest phase of a "decarbonisation" scheme, which has been mainly funded by the government.

The university said public bodies had a "vital role" in bringing down carbon emissions.

The work to install the solar panels is taking take place throughout April and May.

As part of the wider project, the heating system at both buildings will also be updated to make use of an air-source heat pump.

A new ventilation system will be installed in the library to reduce energy consumption.

Meanwhile, high-voltage electrical equipment dating back to the 1970s will be replaced.

The project is focused on the JB Priestley Library and Student Central buildings

Prof Shirley Congdon, vice-chancellor of the University of Bradford, said: “Along with other public bodies universities have a vital role in decarbonisation.

"Decarbonisation also plays a part in attracting staff and students.

“According to Universities UK, 91% of students want their place of study to actively take action.

"This means we must continue to take a more strategic and whole-system approach to decarbonisation.”

The university has secured £2.5m from the government for the project, with the remainder of the funding coming from its own budget.

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