Aberystwyth University enhances student experience and research with innovative energy solutions

A major initiative to tackle climate change has impacted both students and leading photosynthesis research at a university in Wales.

While the project at Aberystwyth University prominently focuses on improving the living conditions for students with new LED lighting, it also features exciting advancements at the National Plant Phenomics Centre, a pioneering research facility dedicated to developing climate-resilient crops. 

With funding from the Welsh Government’s Re:fit scheme and support from Salix, these energy-efficient technologies are set to transform both student life and vital agricultural research.

Transformative LED upgrades for student halls.

This ambitious project's main focus was installing LED lighting across the accommodation at the university's Gogerddan campus. This accounted for £3.3 million of the total £3.6 million loan. Of the 18 buildings upgraded, 11 were residential, housing around 2,000 students. 

The university says this initiative will boost energy efficiency as well as creating great places for students to study.

LED lighting is renowned for its energy savings, consuming up to 75% less electricity than traditional bulbs. It is also thought to provide better quality light that helps reduce eye strain and can even improve concentration.

As work progressed students were asked to provide feedback in a bid to minimise disruption whilst they studied. 

Sustainability advisor at Aberystwyth University, Dewi Day said: “The success of this project is rooted in collaboration among the university’s project team, its students, Salix, and contractors. 

“Regular communication and careful planning allowed for effective management of challenges related to student occupancy and access, ensuring that the upgrades were implemented with minimal disruption.”

LED lighting boosts climate-resilient crop research at phenomics centre

In addition to the improvements in student halls, LED lights were introduced to the National Plant Phenomics Centre, part of the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS).  

This state-of-the-art site is dedicated to cultivating climate-resilient crops that can withstand challenges posed by climate change. 

As part of the initiative, the Centre received tailored LED plant growth lighting in its four greenhouses across the Gogerddan and Penglais campuses. The lighting was carefully tested to achieve uniformity in wavelengths, essential for developing ‘smart’ plants better adapted to future climates.

Dewi said: “Different plants require specific light wavelengths for photosynthesis and development. LEDs can be customised to emit the exact spectrum needed, optimising plant growth and resilience under stress conditions like drought or extreme temperatures.”

Beyond lighting upgrades, the project included a 118 kWh rooftop solar system installed on the William Davies building at the Gogerddan campus, which houses research and office space.

This solar project not only set out to generate green energy but also allowed for necessary roof repairs while scaffolding was in place, extending the roof’s lifespan. Additional energy-saving measures, such as insulation upgrades and draught-proofing in the Hugh Owen building, further reduce energy waste.

Dewi added: “The Re:fit scheme, combined with Salix loan criteria, has provided the university with the confidence to invest in these transformative technologies, ensuring guaranteed savings that mitigate financial risk while supporting its broader sustainability strategy.”

Welsh Government’s re:fit framework which has allocated up to £635 million in funding to public sector organisations for the financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25 to upgrade energy systems, promote cost-effective sustainability and deliver economic and environmental benefits.

The university says it is already reaping the benefits of energy-efficient technologies, with the current project expected to generate 20% of its electricity needs from on-site renewable sources. This progress brings the institution closer to its goal of meeting 25% of its electricity demand through on-site generation by 2030. 

Elan Parry-Lowther, a member of the communications team at Salix, said “This initiative not only underscores Aberystwyth University’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint but also highlights the exciting potential of integrating sustainable energy solutions into student accommodations and research facilities. 

“By leading the way in energy efficiency and innovation, Aberystwyth University sets a precedent for how academic institutions can contribute meaningfully to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.”