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Work has officially begun to connect Bradford College to the £70 million Bradford Energy Network.
The project, led by 1Energy, will supply clean energy to three key institutions: Bradford College, the University of Bradford, and Bradford Courts. The Bradford Energy Network will deliver heat through a network of underground pipes that carry hot water from a central source to connected buildings, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional gas boilers.
The external infrastructure work is being delivered by ThermaMech, with pipes currently being installed across Bradford city centre.
Bradford College's participation in the scheme has been made possible by a £2.6 million grant from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), administered by Salix on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. The grant is being used to connect the College’s David Hockney and ATC buildings to the new district heating system.
Pamela Sheldon, Head of Projects at Bradford College, said: "As one of the UK's youngest cities, Bradford must be future proofed for the next generation. Bradford College is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and we are proud to be leading the way in this crucial work. Our transition to renewable energy will benefit nearly 3,500 staff and students in two of our main college buildings and marks a major step forward in Bradford College’s sustainability efforts."
The heat network will use one of the UK's largest air source heat pumps, and is expected to reduce direct carbon emissions at Bradford College by more than 285 tonnes annually. Across all connected buildings, emissions are expected to drop by 85–90%, contributing to a city-wide reduction of approximately 8,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent during the first phase.
In addition to its environmental impact, the Bradford Energy Network aims to deliver long-term social value for the local community.
As part of this commitment, contractor ThermaMech has pledged to support students with construction and engineering study programme placements, industry masterclasses, site tours linked to coursework, and staff development opportunities. The company will also contribute to the ongoing Bradford Beck Community Project in partnership with Morgan Sindall, Groundworks UK and Friends of Bradford Beck.
