Sector: Higher Education
Client: University of Sussex – Multi-building campus near Brighton
Challenge: Meet carbon reduction targets and improve energy visibility
Solution: Phased metering strategy and long-term monitoring platform
Impact: £1M+ saved, solar performance optimised, targeted investment enabled
The Challenge
The University of Sussex had set ambitious environmental goals aligned with EU and UK policy. By 2020, they aimed to:
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Cut greenhouse gas emissions by 20% (from 1990 levels)
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Source 20% of energy from renewables
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Improve energy efficiency by 20%
To reach these targets, they needed clear visibility of how energy and water were used across a large and diverse estate. They also needed a strategy that would deliver value within tight annual budgets.
Our Approach
Optimal Monitoring worked with the University to design a metering strategy that provided both a campus-wide overview and granular insights at the building and service level.
The rollout was split into manageable, value-driven mini-projects. This phased approach:
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Delivered early wins
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Allowed performance verification
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Supported smarter investment decisions
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Maximised impact within annual budgets
Real-time dashboards and data visualisation made the results clear and compelling—not just for facilities teams, but for staff and students too.
The Outcome
The impact was immediate. Shortly after installation, the system flagged a major water leak equivalent to two Olympic-sized swimming pools every other day. The issue was resolved, saving an estimated £1 million – more than covering the system’s cost.
The data also exposed underperformance in solar generation. These issues were quickly resolved, and the panels now deliver at optimal levels.
Key Learnings
- Fast issue detection = fast savings. Real-time alerts ensured quick action and clear ROI.
- Scalable strategy = sustainable change. A phased approach allowed the University to make progress without overcommitting budgets.
- Data visualisation = greater engagement. Live dashboards supported internal reporting and raised awareness across campus.
- Better data = better decisions. From leak detection to solar optimisation, improved insight enabled smarter investment.
“We were able to detect and fix issues fast, make measurable savings, and justify future projects. The impact has been transformational.”