10 August 2026
The solar installation is one of several sustainability improvements delivered over the past year
The University of Sunderland has reached another significant sustainability milestone with the completion of a new solar photovoltaic (PV) array.
The new 90kWp solar array on Helen McArdle House, City Campus, is now fully operational and is expected to generate around 78,840 kWh of renewable electricity each year – enough to power the equivalent of 32 average UK homes.
This latest installation brings the University's total number of solar PV arrays to 11, with a combined capacity of 1,365kWp. Together, these arrays now generate enough clean electricity annually to power the equivalent of 480 UK homes, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower the University's carbon footprint.
The investment forms part of the University's ongoing commitment to decarbonising its operations as it works towards its ambition of becoming Net Zero Carbon by 2040.
The solar installation is one of several sustainability improvements delivered over the past year. Alongside expanding renewable energy generation, the University has upgraded campus lighting to energy-efficient LED systems, replaced ventilation equipment with more efficient technology, and installed heat pumps to replace fossil fuel heating systems.
Collectively, these measures have contributed to a 20% reduction in the University's carbon emissions over the last 12 months, demonstrating the positive impact of continued investment in sustainable infrastructure.
As the University continues its journey towards Net Zero, projects such as these not only reduce environmental impact but also reduce running costs and create a more sustainable campus for students, staff and the wider community.