The pilot project "Red Zone" reduced energy consumption for the University of Borås

The purpose of the "Red Zone" was to test how the university can reduce its energy consumption through smarter use of building technology and holiday-adapted operating hours. The closure during the summer was done in consultation with the university's operations to minimize the impact on staff and students. As an alternative, workplaces were offered in the nearby Balder building.

Patrik Andersson, property developer at the University of Borås explains:
"The shutdown resulted in a saving of 5.9 percent, corresponding to approximately 41,000 kWh of electricity and 28,000 kWh of cooling, compared to the same period in 2023. For the university as a whole, this corresponds to about one percent in reduced energy consumption.

Important step towards long-term energy goals

The percentage reduction makes a significant contribution to the EU directive's annual requirements for energy efficiency, where the goal is to reduce the university's total energy consumption by at least 1.9 percent. Therefore, Akademiska Hus and the University of Borås are now reviewing the possibility of implementing the "Red Zone" as a recurring measure every summer.

"Both Akademiska Hus and the University of Borås have high sustainability goals, and through close collaboration we can implement measures like these. We look forward to continuing our long-term sustainability work together," says Christian Olsson, property manager at Akademiska Hus. 

An evaluation of the project has been carried out to gather views from the relevant departments, which provides the opportunity for further adaptations in the future. If the evaluation goes according to plan, next year's summer term could bring even greater savings and pave the way for more energy-saving initiatives on other campuses.