FE/HE NEWS Coventry University aiming for net zero milestone
Leading law firm Mills & Reeve has advised Coventry University on its connection to the city’s district energy network – a 6.6km underground system that transports heat from the city’s energy from waste facilities to supply energy to major public buildings, operated by Bring Energy. The connection will significantly reduce emissions arising from the University’s use of gas to heat buildings and provide hot water. This is part of the University’s target to be net zero by 2030 as the heat network produces less than a quarter of the carbon emissions of natural gas. Coventry University was awarded a grant of almost £13million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, which is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and delivered by Salix Finance Limited. Connecting to a district energy network involves packages of connection works, being the installation of underground heat pipework linking the existing system to the plantrooms of 11 university buildings followed by secondary works to each building to ensure system interface. Fossil
fuel boilers are removed, and the existing heating system is connected via a heat exchanger which requires minimal maintenance. Energy is billed based on metered heat supplied, on a long-term basis.
Mills & Reeve advised on all aspects of the project, including the commercial and real estate matters enabling the University to connect to the heat network. This included the drafting of the energy supply agreement, leases and wayleaves required for the heat network operator to construct and operate the connection. Nick Helm, partner at Mills & Reeve, said: “Connecting the university buildings to Coventry’s district energy network is a real milestone in reducing carbon emissions and modernising its energy infrastructure.”
Mark Cammies, Chief Executive of Coventry University Enterprise, said: “We’re proud of the efforts we’re making for the Group to become net zero by 2030 and this project to connect our buildings to the district energy network is an important step on our journey.”
Cheshire College celebrates Class of 2025 at Higher Education graduation
of whom have balanced work, family, and study to reach this point. Congratulations and the very best of luck to all graduates as they take their next steps.”
Hannah Crockett, HND Engineering graduate, said: “I’m currently in full-time employment and wanted to do Higher Education part-time. I really liked the flexibility and the fact that everyone is so friendly — there are so many opportunities here. I’m going to continue my education and go to university to do the top-up year so I can gain a full degree.” Jo Francis, Lecturer in Education and Training, commented: “It’s been an absolute pleasure teaching some of the students in this cohort — they’ve engaged in everything they’ve done. Graduation isn’t just a celebration of the certificate; it’s a celebration of everything else also conquered along the way.”
“It’s a really important time for reflection and for thinking about how graduates want to take their career forward and keep developing.” Guest speaker Kamal Ellis-Hyman delivered an inspiring address, encouraging graduates to embrace the next stage of their personal and professional journeys.
Cheshire College – South & West has celebrated the achievements of its Higher Education students with a formal graduation ceremony at Chester Cathedral.
The ceremony brought together graduates of university-level courses from the College’s Crewe, Ellesmere Port, and Chester campuses, alongside peers and college staff for a memorable day of celebration. Graduates were awarded qualifications across a diverse range of disciplines, including Engineering, Computing, Performing Arts, Business, and Education.
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, said: “Graduation day is always one of the highlights of the year. It’s a moment to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students, many
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The College’s Higher Education provision is closely aligned to local and regional skills priorities, ensuring students graduate with the knowledge, technical expertise, and professional networks sought by employers across Cheshire and beyond.
Through strong partnerships with leading organisations, including Bentley, NHS, and Unipart, students benefit from invaluable real-world experience, with many completing higher-level apprenticeships alongside their studies.
“We have invested heavily in resources and facilities for Higher Education students because we are passionate about ensuring they have access to quality education, first-class facilities, and personalised teaching. That commitment continues to underpin our role as a leading provider of skills across the region.” Dhesi added.
November 2025
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