The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has received £2.7m in funding under the Public Services Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) launched by Salix on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
This funding is a crucial step forward in LSE’s Sustainability Strategic Plan – accelerating the further decarbonisation of the university’s buildings; in alignment with the ambitious targets set by the UK Government to reduce carbon emissions.
LSE commissioned professional services company Turner & Townsend to undertake energy and carbon assessments of key operational buildings across the School’s estate. Leveraging guidance provided by PSDS and drawing upon Turner & Townsend’s expertise, LSE have identified two sites that will be developed with the funding – the Lionel Robbins Building, which houses the LSE Library, and Connaught House. The planned renovations will include the installations of state-of-the-art air source heat pumps and enhancements to existing solar panels and LED lighting circuits.
The total estimated value of the proposed development is £4,782,722 with LSE being granted £2,697,890 from the PSDS fund. LSE will match-fund the balance. This financial support will be instrumental in phasing out fossil-fuel-based heating at the two identified sites – advancing LSE’s goal of ‘reaching net-zero and reducing our direct environmental impact’ as affirmed in LSE’s Sustainability Strategic Plan.
Commenting on the news, LSE’s Interim President and Vice Chancellor Professor Eric Neumayer said: “We are thrilled to have received the PSDS funding grant. Our buildings and their operations are crucial to maintaining our student experience and to addressing our climate impact. This funding will help LSE accelerate on the journey towards our net zero goals.”
LSE’s Director of Estates Julian Robinson continued:“This a first for LSE Estates and a wonderful team effort. We are grateful to DESNZ and Salix for the financial support through PSDS, as well as Turner & Townsend for assisting us with the initial proposal.”
Turner & Townsend Associate Director John Bailey added:“We are delighted that LSE has been successful in its application to Salix for this funding. It has been a pleasure to work with the LSE and support its efforts in leading the way to a net zero estate.’’
The Sustainability Strategic Plan, in conjunction with these proactive measures, underscores LSE’s commitment to lead by example in addressing our environmental footprint. The development of these initiatives will help propel LSE to its overarching goal of a fully decarbonised estate.
