Decarbonising cities

Decarbonising cities is fundamental to achieving net zero goals by 2050. Researchers at the University of ºù«Ӱҵ are using their expertise to find solutions that will ensure a sustainable energy future for city regions around the world.

Graphic of buildings in a cityscape

Cities occupy only two percent of the world's landmass but they leave a huge carbon footprint. From powering homes and businesses to transport infrastructure and the built environment - our cities consume over two-thirds of the world’s energy and account for more than .

Our researchers are using their expertise to find solutions that will ensure a sustainable energy future for city regions around the world.

Powering our cities

Graphic depicting power suppy to cityscape

How does a city region function in a sustainable, net-zero carbon future?

Our researchers are investigating the full energy system of a city, from how it is powered to its energy security and infrastructure. 

Our projects examine the flow of energy resources in cities as well as clean energy processes, energy storage and transport. From regenerative cities, urban ecology to smart cities - our researchers cover the full energy spectrum.

Energy efficient built environments

Graphics depicting buildings and energy efficiency

How can we build more sustainable cities?

Researchers from the Energy Institute are investigating net-zero solutions that will help to create more sustainable built environments.

We examine sustainable building design, energy performance, occupancy feedback and the development of more sustainable construction materials. Our innovative research projects are developing practical solutions for more energy-efficient cities.

PhD research

a wall of concrete

Using alkali-activated materials to develop sustainable construction materials

Researchers are investigating how we can replace carbon-heavy traditional cement with cement made from alkali-activated materials, creating a sustainable alternative for a vital part of a city’s construction infrastructure.

Sustainable construction materials

Dusk or night time landscape over small british town, showing street lamps, and denser populations in the distance

Peer-to-peer energy trading between households could support an electrified future

Our research is looking into ways in which electricity can be traded between households in ‘microgrid’ communities to save money and resources.

Trading electricity

solar panels on roof of new houses in england uk

Ensuring resilience in UK housing performance

Researchers are examining how nearly zero energy housing can be improved to become more robust, adaptable and resilient to physical and social changes.

Assessing low carbon housing