Our buildings and infrastructure have high demand and energy use as they provide the foundation for research, learning and campus life. These assets play a critical role in the University’s transition to more efficient and sustainable energy use.
Improving how energy is used across the University is central to our strategy to reduce emissions and costs, while also preparing for climate-related risks such as extreme weather. While the University already benefits from the Australian Capital Territory’s 100% renewable electricity supply, further action is needed to improve efficiency, scale up renewable generation, phase out fossil fuel use and ensure all buildings are fully electrified. These actions are essential to achieving our goal of being below zero emissions by 2040.
See key highlights from our energy work below or explore our progress in our various reports and publications.
Our approach
The University’s energy strategy focuses on practical actions that reduce emissions, improve efficiency and support long-term resilience. The strategy focuses on smarter infrastructure, cleaner energy and better use of data to deliver measurable results across campus. These approaches ensure ANU continues to decarbonise while delivering reliable, cost-effective energy solutions that support research, teaching and campus life.
Key focus areas include:
- Transition campus energy systems away from fossil fuels by replacing gas infrastructure (including heating and hot water) with efficient electric alternatives.
- Enhance the energy efficiency of existing buildings to lower operational costs and reduce emissions.
- Increase on-site renewable generation and improve demand management to reduce operational costs and strengthen system resilience.
- Continue to procure 100% renewable electricity for all ANU campuses.
- Strengthen energy resilience and adaptation measures to safeguard campus operations, research and teaching.
Our goal
Improve energy efficiency, phase out fossil fuel-based energy and support energy resilience across ANU operations.
Our targets
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas use by 24% by 2030 (2019 base year).
- Reduce total energy consumption per m2 (Gross Floor Area) by 5% by 2030 (2024 base year).
- Increase installed solar PV capacity from 1.125 MW (2024) to 2.4 MW by 2030.
- Support the resilience of campus energy infrastructure in the face of climate-related risks.
Our progress
The University continues to progress electrification, energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects across campus, supported by improved data, monitoring and performance review processes.
Our progress is reviewed regularly and published through various reports and publications.
Energy transition
We are transitioning our energy systems away from fossil fuels to support a more resilient, carbon smart campus.
Find out more
Energy efficiency
We are reducing energy use across campus by upgrading building systems, optimising performance and supporting smarter energy use.
Find out more
Renewable energy on campus
We are expanding on-site renewable energy to lower operating costs and strengthen energy resilience while supporting our transition to below zero emissions.
Find out more
KEAP – ANU Utility and Waste Data Platform
KEAP helps us track and understand energy, water and waste use across campus. By improving access to data and insights, KEAP supports better decision-making and targeted efficiency improvements.
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