Energy-efficient renovation and building

CUT has implemented a comprehensive policy for the development and renovation of its buildings, emphasizing optimal energy efficiency and the minimal use of natural resources. This initiative aligns with the University’s Environmental Policy, which is designed to ensure sustainable practices in all infrastructure projects. The policy adheres closely to the relevant legislation established by the Ministry of Energy of Cyprus, demonstrating CUT’s commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the University is obligated under this framework to develop net zero energy buildings, ensuring that new constructions and major renovations meet the highest standards of energy performance. By achieving net zero energy status, CUT aims to balance energy consumption with renewable energy production on-site, setting a benchmark for sustainability in higher education institutions across the region.

Upgrade buildings to higher energy efficiency

The University is planning a significant upgrade to the energy efficiency of its buildings, prioritising improvements based on each building’s size, energy consumption, and occupancy. The analysis aims to identify which buildings consume the most energy per person and per square meter, ensuring resources are allocated where they will have the greatest impact. A representative sample from the analysis of 40 buildings is provided, illustrating the energy performance metrics. The accompanying graphs highlights energy consumption both per person and per square meter, enabling a visual comparison across the sample. This methodology ensures a data-driven approach to optimizing energy efficiency, contributing to sustainability and operational cost reduction.

There are also relevant graphs for each building which is impossible to share online.

Carbon reduction and emission reduction process

CUT aims for zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, setting an example for others. Its strategy tackles emissions across:

Scope 1: Direct emissions (facilities, vehicles).
Scope 2: Indirect emissions (purchased energy).
Scope 3: Indirect emissions (commuting, waste, procurement).

Reducing emissions across the three scopes is targeted through the following actions:

Scope 1: Transition to low-emission vehicles, phase out boilers, upgrade AC systems (target: zero by 2030).
Scope 2: Build a photovoltaic park, cut grid reliance (target: zero by 2030).
Scope 3: Reduce travel emissions, plant trees, minimize waste, adopt sustainable procurement (target: neutrality by 2050).

CUT’s Environmental Policy Office oversees implementation, supported by education, research, and partnerships. Aligning with SDG 13, CUT leads in sustainable, low-carbon development.

Plan to reduce energy consumption

CUT aims to reduce energy consumption and reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 through a comprehensive energy efficiency plan. The plan includes the following key actions:

Facilities: Upgrading heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems to energy-efficient alternatives. A photovoltaic park (operational by 2025) will offset electricity use, targeting Scope 2 energy neutrality by 2030.
Fleet: Transitioning to low-emission and electric vehicles with fleet reductions, aiming for Scope 1 neutrality by 2030.
Buildings: Retrofitting for insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and smart energy management systems to minimize usage.
Scope 3: Promoting sustainable commuting and reducing waste-related energy consumption.

Governed by the Environmental Policy Office, CUT integrates energy goals with education, research, and SDG 13. Targets: Energy neutrality (2025–2030) and net-zero emissions by 2050.

Energy wastage identification.

CUT actively identifies and addresses energy wastage using Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and detailed analyses. Key tools and metrics include:

EPCs to assess building energy performance, classify efficiency, and highlight areas for improvement such as heating, cooling, and lighting.
Energy analyses to evaluate energy use per square meter and per person to detect structural and user-driven inefficiencies.

Audits and interventions are also undertaken:

Energy audits to identify outdated systems, poor insulation, and wasteful behaviours.
Implement retrofits, upgrade HVAC systems, and optimise management systems for energy savings during low-use periods.

Additionally, continuous monitoring ensures regular EPC updates and performance metric evaluations for ongoing improvement and adaptation to new challenges. CUT’s proactive measures reflect leadership in sustainable energy, aligning with global goals for efficiency and conservation.

Divestment policy

CUT responsibly manages its investments and resource allocation with integrity and transparency, guided by the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Sustainable Investment Policy ensures a holistic approach to investments, focusing solely on sustainable development and aligning with the 17 SDGs in both investment types and management processes. Additionally, all investment decisions comply with CUT’s legislative framework.

Local community outreach for energy efficiency

CUT actively supports the Limassol Municipality’s initiative to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 as part of the Mission City project. It collaborates in organising workshops to engage stakeholders during the preparation of the portfolio of the city. The university is involved in research projects promoting the importance of energy efficiency in buildings and public spaces (LC3 project) and provides consultations on clean energy entrepreneurship. Through implementation of MICIE project, CUT is preparing action plans to integrate research and innovation into the National Energy and Climate Plans. Additionally, it raises public awareness by hosting a presentation series titled Cyprus Talks Green.

100% renewable energy pledge

A Collaboration Protocol aiming to make Limassol a climate-neutral and smart city by 2030 was signed by CUT and the Municipality of Limassol. The protocol envisages the development of the Limassol City Climate Convention in the context of the Municipality’s participation in the European Mission: 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities

Energy efficiency services for industry

CUT has been actively offering consulting services to local administrations and industry stakeholders, with a focus on enhancing energy efficiency and promoting clean energy solutions. These services include specialised workshops designed to develop comprehensive action plans for organisations through active staff involvement. Notably, the Youth Board of Cyprus and the Cyprus Lifelong Learning Foundation (IDEP) have both benefited from these initiatives. CUT academics have led workshops aimed at identifying key actions to advance energy efficiency and clean energy, both by implementing institutional strategies and establishing specific criteria for the projects funded by these organisations.

Policy development for clean energy technology

Academic staff from CUT have key positions to inform and support policy development in clean energy and energy-efficient technology. On a local level, Professor Soteris Kalogirou is the Vice Chairman of the CYS Committee for solar thermal collector testing and Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides is a member of the Board of Directors of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus.

On a global level, Professor Soteris Kalogirou is member of the Energy committee of EASAC (European Academies Scientific Advisory Board). Through these positions, as well as the organisation of dedicated conferences, such as EuroSun 2024, which was held in Cyprus, organised by Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides, CUT plays a significant role in supporting governmental decision-making around clean energy

Assistance to low-carbon innovation

CUT coordinated Inno-EUt+, a project funded under the umbrella of the EIT Climate-KIC, dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation around cleantech. Several cleantech startups have been supported in this context, aiming to tackle environmental challenges. The European University Alliance ‘European University of Technology’ (EUt+) has been incorporating key results of Inno-EUt+ to the alliance’s strategy.