Sharing our experience of decarbonising student accommodation buildings

At Wadham, we collaborate closely with the University to deliver an education that enables exceptional students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential, whilst advancing world-leading research. We are committed also to being part of Oxford University's efforts to improve environmental sustainability, locally and globally.

The College strives to enhance its sustainability, implementing both short and long-term strategies to minimise negative environmental, ethical and social impacts. In line with this commitment, Wadham has set an ambitious objective to achieve a carbon net zero estate by 2035, including the complete removal of gas heating. Realising this target is a considerable challenge, as the College’s buildings, though beautiful and historic – some dating back over four centuries – were not constructed with carbon emissions and energy reduction in mind. Chris Cox, Estates Manager, explains the challenges and how we addressed them:

"When we began evaluating how to replace the gas-fired heating to electric across our student accommodation we needed to be innovative and forward thinking. NexGen’s infrared ceiling paper was the simple and cost-effective heating solution we didn’t expect to find. The installation was remarkably unobtrusive. Its discreet installation avoids pipework, boilers and structural alterations – essential for preserving our heritage buildings. Infrared warmth is immediate, heating occupants and surfaces efficiently. Paired with cutting edge Eyesense control, a system that detects occupancy and responds accordingly, heating waste is eliminated – reducing carbon emissions and cutting costs by a third compared to gas. This is a substantial saving for us. Equally important is the simplification of the ongoing maintenance. No boilers, no pressured systems, no risk of widespread failure – any issues are isolated to individual rooms. It is a solution that is transforming our Estates Strategy and reducing carbon emissions at the College, whilst also respecting our buildings and providing modern-day comfort.”

We aim to reach carbon net zero by 2035 and our collaboration with NexGen is helping us to make significant strides towards this goal. Find out more about our efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce our impact on the environment.

This video shows how we worked with NexGen to approach the challenge of decarbonising our student accommodation blocks with their innovative Infrared Ceiling Paper Technology.