Renewable energy: 2 years of campaigning from student volunteers have convinced the university to move to 100% renewable energy

The University of Sheffield has just announced that it will now use energy generated only by solar, wind, and hydro power. This is a huge cause for celebration for the UoS Clean Energy Switch Campaign group- a group of student volunteers who have dedicated hundreds of hours to fight for a sustainable future. They have ended up influencing how the University spends millions of pounds every year.

For years, the University of Sheffield bought its electricity from Drax Group, which generates electricity by burning coal and biofuels (Drax deforestorestation and shipping of biofuels is proven to be high carbon), and is at the forefront of UK corporate greenwashing.

Students researched the university's previous energy supplier’s environmental impact and costs. They lobbied for a more cost effective and environmentally friendly energy provider. The volunteers presented this information to university decision makers, sat on groups making recommendations to the highest governing body of the University, and ultimately triggered the change in supplier.

George Coiley, a environmental politics PhD student: “I’ve put countless hours into this campaign, and two years later the University has at last made the right decision, one that is more aligned with the demands of climate justice. While there is much more to be done both in Sheffield and in the wider sector, we hope our success shows other institutions that positive steps can be achieved right now.”

Peter Nolan, an undergraduate reading Environmental Science: “A racial analysis of climate change reveals that it has been primarily caused by affluent white people, while those who suffer its consequences are primarily black, indigenous and people of colour. To be anti-racist, our universities and institutions must dismantle this exploitation. A small part is decarbonising our energy systems in the UK.”

Maria, a PhD candidate in sustainable agriculture: “As an international student from a developing country, I never thought that I could have much impact on how things are being run. Being part of this team of incredibly passionate volunteers has really empowered me to speak out for climate justice and inspire others to do the same!"