Energy use trajectory

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Against the backdrop of the climate emergency and an energy crisis that is resulting in rising costs, the University of Bordeaux is fully committed to reducing its energy consumption.

Photo : Over 8,000 m² of photovoltaic panels have been installed at the University of Bordeaux
Over 8,000 m² of photovoltaic panels have been installed at the University of Bordeaux

In 2022, energy-related greenhouse gas emissions accounted for 13,000 tCO2eq (21% of the university’s total emissions), which was 18% less than in 2019. Between 2022 and 2023, energy-related greenhouse gas emissions fell by a further 7%. Within the university, buildings’ energy transition is managed by the real estate department for both infrastructure energy renovation projects and operational management-related matters.

All of its departments are involved in these issues, particularly the project management, operational management (which has included a heating network project manager since 2023) and environmental performance departments, which is comprised of a data analyst, three energy managers since 2023 and a financial manager.

University of Bordeaux’s energy efficiency plan (in French)

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Objectives

Reduce energy consumption, with a short-term target of a 10% reduction in 2023-2024 compared to the previous year and longer-term targets under the Tertiary Decree to reduce energy consumption for the university’s activities (excluding research activities) by 40% by 2030, 50% by 2040 and 60% by 2050 compared to 2019.

Action plan

Reducing consumption

In the years ahead, the university will be pursuing a wide range of initiatives based around 3 levers:

  • Intrinsic quality of buildings: renovation, relamping
  • Operating performance: managing consumption using new tools, data analysis, new, more stringent specifications for operators
  • Behaviour and usage: renewal of the CUBE competition, developing a culture of energy efficiency (particularly for digital technology)

Improving consumption

Consumption is not the only factor in reducing energy-linked greenhouse gas emissions. The nature of the energy mix greatly influences the impact; in order to decarbonise the university’s energy sources, these following different projects will be implemented:

  • Photovoltaic energy production: by 2028, the University of Bordeaux is planning to install 9,000 m² of photovoltaic panels in addition to the 9,000 m² already installed.
  • Developing heating networks, with studies for two projects currently underway
  • Ceasing use of the last oil-fired boilers