College Pioneers Net Zero Transformation At Kent Campuses
Patrons of the Chamber, MidKent College are nearing completion of their pioneering transformation in the way its Maidstone and Medway campuses are powered and operated. The College’s ambitious ZERO initiative is moving into the final phase of development. The transition to sustainable energy is due this summer.
The ZERO project encompasses a range of sustainability-focused measures that will transform the management of the College’s campuses and day-to-day working practices. The switch to sustainable energy includes the installation of large solar panel arrays (including the largest vertical solar installation in the UK), as well as ground and air source heat pumps.
Before embarking on Project Zero the college’s carbon footprint revealed emissions exceeding 4,400 cubic tons per year. The project will cut total carbon emissions by 70% and eliminate gas use entirely by removing gas boilers a year after completion, wiping out the gas bill. In addition, the College will generate electricity onsite to power its campuses and expects to generate surplus energy in the summer for battery storage or return to the grid, offsetting winter demands.
“This project represents a transformative step forward for MidKent College,” said Martin Peat, Executive Director of Finance and Facilities, who is leading the ZERO initiative. “While we experienced some temporary disruption during these works, the long-term benefits will be profound. Generating our own electricity and moving away from fossil fuels will position us as a leader in sustainability within the education sector.”
Maidstone and Medway
Each campus at Maidstone and Medway had different challenges and required different solutions. Solar panels have been installed and await connection to a substation, while ground and air source heat pumps are set to supply heating and hot water by May, paving the way for the removal of outdated gas-powered systems.
At Medway, a new plant room arrives imminently. Key components for air source heat pumps and batteries were delivered and installed via a crane lift, marking a significant milestone.
At Maidstone, 12km of pipework was sunk in boreholes and solar car ports will shortly be installed in the carpark, further enhancing the College’s renewable energy capabilities.
A Vision for the Future
The ZERO project is a cornerstone of MidKent College’s commitment to sustainability, and completing the switch to sustainable energy will deliver long-lasting benefits for both the environment and the College community.
Chief executive and principal of MidKent College, Simon Cook, said: “We are committed to responding not only to the expectations of our students, who demand an increasingly environmentally responsible approach, but also to the needs of our local employers. Through our ZERO project, we are actively helping organisations across sectors, from construction and engineering to local authorities and planners, to equip their workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful change.”
Cllr Simon Curry, Portfolio for Climate Change and Strategic Regeneration, said: “MidKent College has become a leading voice locally in the education sector and for its environmentally friendly initiatives. The college is leading the way through its delivery of decarbonisation skills as well as its hugely positive steps to achieving its own decarbonisation journey. This acts as an outstanding example to the college’s thousands of students, and business partners alike, demonstrating a firm commitment to becoming sustainable. Through a combined desire to make a positive impact beyond just our local residents, MidKent College is pivotal in steering the wider Kent and Medway region towards net zero emissions and fostering the creation of green jobs.”
