Goal 7 - Clean and Affordable Energy

Ensure access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy

Research

Scientists at Lancaster University have studied satellite images of the UK to produce the most accurate assessment yet on how much land solar farms occupy. The researchers say that having an accurate estimate for the amount of land used for solar farms is essential for future planning decisions.

Investment in nuclear facilities

Lancaster University will strengthen its support for the UK’s clean energy goals and help enhance the country’s future nuclear safety and security with the creation of a new nuclear facility control room simulator. Funded through a £2 million grant from the Office for Students, the facility will address a critical gap by developing a nationally-unique educational facility designed to train future professionals in nuclear energy, cyber security and nuclear engineering.

Floating solar panels

Researchers from Lancaster have been working on a project that looks at the potential of floating solar photovoltaic panels on lakes to provide electricity globally. Their research found that the solar panels could supply all the electricity needs of some countries such as Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia and Rwanda.

Teaching

Green energy

Our degree options run through The Lancaster Environment Centre, focus on teaching about global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, resource provision, and natural hazards. For example, our Environmental Science degree has a module on Energy and the Environment, that focuses on each of the key energy technologies, learning how to detail its importance, its forms and uses and its cost and environmental impact, whilst looking at future solutions to sustainable energy demands.

Campus life

Wind turbine

The wind turbine on our campus has generated between 4,000,000 and 5,000,000 kWh of electricity. Catering for around 14% of the University's electricity consumption each year, the wind turbine has produced enough electricity to power over 1200 homes for a year.

Net zero project

Already one of the highest producers of renewable energy out of all UK universities, Lancaster University is investing a further £57 million to decarbonise the Bailrigg campus. There are two projects – a solar PV farm and a low carbon energy centre, that will take the University significantly closer towards achieving ‘net zero’ carbon emissions from electricity and heating by 2030.

Public Engagement

Inspiring the next generation

The wind turbine is a popular place for school visits to help inspire the next generation. Recently, a group of local primary school children from Dent in Cumbria, visited the wind turbine to help teach them about renewable energy and how it helps the planet. The University also runs frequent visits for staff and students throughout the year.

40%

The solar farm will reduce energy emissions by up to 40%

1200

The wind turbine saves on average 1200 tonnes of CO2 each year

Since 2005, we've reduced energy related emissions by 50%