Sustainable Energy Management Policy

Document Number	000893
Date Approved	24 February 2009

 

1.      Introduction      

Respect for the environment and a commitment to the principles of sustainable environmental management are among the guiding principles of the University of Newcastle (Building Distinction - Strategic Plan 2007-2011). They are values which have always been important to the University - informing its approach to sustainable construction, community education, research, and teaching.

In view of the reality and potential gravity of human-induced climate change, the University accepts responsibility for renewing its efforts to manage its use and procurement of energy in ways that are sustainable; for reducing its carbon footprint; and for providing leadership in sustainable energy management practices.

2.      Policy Intent

This policy supports the University’s commitment to providing leadership in environmentally sustainable energy management practices, demonstrated through: community engagement, teaching, research, and the management of its campuses and facilities.

2.1.     Policy Objectives:

This policy and associated plan have the following objectives:

1. sustainable energy end-use through planned reduction in the University’s consumption of energy;
2. progressive sourcing of the University’s energy needs from sustainable energy sources;
3. progress towards carbon neutrality targets for the activities of the University directly under its control;
4. cultural change through strong leadership, the practice of sustainable energy management, and collaboration with community agencies;
5. the enhancement of leading edge research into sustainable energy practices through appropriate support and resourcing; and
6. the preparation of graduates with knowledge and skill to advocate and practise sustainable energy use.

3.      Relevant Definitions

In the context of this policy:

carbon neutrality means having no net carbon emissions. Carbon neutrality is achieved by minimizing carbon emissions as much as possible and using carbon offsets or other emissions to mitigate the remaining emissions;

renewable energy means energy derived from sources that are regenerative or which, for all practical purposes, cannot be depleted;

sustainable energy sources means energy sources which are not expected to be depleted in a time frame relevant to the human race, and which therefore contribute to the sustainability of all species. Sustainable energy sources are most often regarded as including all renewable sources, such as solar power, wind power, wave power, geothermal power, tidal power, and others.

4.      Policy Principles

1. The University is committed to environmentally sustainable energy management and to reducing its carbon emissions. That commitment will routinely inform decision-making, both in short and long-term planning.
2. The University will establish policies, plans and targets for achieving sustainable energy end-use.
3. The University will progressively source its energy requirements where practicable, from sustainable energy sources.
4. Strategies for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions both from general energy use and other activities directly under the University’s control, will provide for the gradual achievement within the University, of the target of a 20% reduction in carbon emissions by 2015 working towards carbon neutrality in the longer term, with the target date for carbon neutrality to be set in 2015.
5. The University will invest any savings achieved through its better energy management practices in funding for future initiatives within its Environmental Management Framework and related policy.
6. The University will drive and support cultural change towards sustainability both within the University and the wider community.
7. Consideration and analysis of sustainable environmental practices including energy efficiencies will be integral to teaching where relevant, so that awareness and advocacy of sustainability are characteristics of graduates of the University of Newcastle.
8. Sustainable energy research will be maintained and enhanced as a priority area within broader energy research.

5.      Essential Supporting Documents

2011 - 2013 Environmental Sustainability Plan

Environment Sustainability Policy - 000936

6.      Related Documents

Air Conditioning Policy and Procedure - 000528

Approval Authority	Vice-Chancellor
Date Approved	24 February 2009
Policy Sponsor	Vice-Chancellor
Policy Owner	Director, Facilities Management
Policy Contact	Director, Facilities Management
Amendment History	Amended 28 June 2011 - amended Policy Owner and Policy Contact Amended 28 June 2011 - updated list of Essential Supporting Documents Approved 24 February 2009