The University of Bradford was one of the first major institutions to join the Bradford Energy Network, a groundbreaking low-carbon heat project being developed by 1Energy. But why did they choose to join, and what has that journey looked like since?

When the network goes live in Autumn 2026, the energy centre will generate heat using one of the largest air source heat pumps in the country, transporting it around the city via a buried network of insulated pipes to deliver an immediate 75% reduction in heating emissions for connected customers.

For Steve Gilley, Director of Infrastructure at the University of Bradford, the decision to join wasn’t just about replacing outdated heating systems – it was about shaping the city’s sustainable future.

Sustainable investment

“This project has the potential to halve our carbon emissions by 2026 – that’s an absolutely compelling proposition,” said Gilley.

Faced with the cost of replacing its 1960s boilers – a capital investment of around £14 million – the University saw greater value in 1Energy’s model, which combined lower up-front investment with carbon savings and government support.

“This became a bit of a no-brainer – we couldn’t justify investing in outdated boiler systems when 1Energy’s model offered carbon savings and government support with a lower capital deployment for the University.”

A genuine partnership

The University’s experience highlights how connecting to a 1Energy network goes beyond a simple infrastructure upgrade.

“What we’ve experienced is a partner – not just a supplier. It’s a genuine collaboration built on flexibility and trust,” said Gilley.

Far from being transactional, 1Energy worked alongside the University team to design a solution that met financial, operational, and sustainability goals: “1Energy weren’t dogmatic. They listened, understood what was driving our needs, and helped us find a balanced solution.”

In practice, this even extended to helping secure funding: “They helped us write the Salix funding bid alongside delivering on installation. That’s above and beyond.”

Impact beyond the campus

As a case study, the University’s connection to the Bradford Energy Network shows how early adopters can shape the future of their city and deliver wider benefits.

“We’ve gone from scepticism to seeing this as a transformational opportunity — not just for the University, but for the city of Bradford.”

By enabling the project to move forward, the University also helped ensure Bradford secured tens of millions in government investment.

“Bradford could have lost tens of millions in government investment without this project – our engagement helped secure that for the city.”

A pathway to net zero

By committing to the Bradford Energy Network, the University not only delivers immediate emission reductions but also demonstrates leadership on an issue of growing importance to students, funding bodies, and stakeholders – delivering on sustainability goals and achieving Net Zero.

“Today’s students care deeply about climate issues – and sustainability increasingly influences league tables and funding eligibility,” said Gilley.

For the University of Bradford, connecting to the Bradford Energy Network has provided both a near-term solution to pressing infrastructure challenges and a long-term pathway to Net Zero.

“This project gives us a credible pathway to Net Zero – something increasingly expected by funding bodies and our stakeholders within the sector.”

If you’re interested to hear more about how connecting your buildings to one of our heat networks could benefit your organisation, reach out to our team on info@1energy.uk