This summer, London Metropolitan University has installed 111 new sub-meters across its estate and connected them to the University’s Building Management System (BMS). Together they expand the live energy dashboard already in place, giving Estates teams more detailed, real-time insight into how electricity is used, from whole buildings down to individual facilities.
The sub-meters follow work earlier this year to install 941 intelligent radiator valves in the Tower complex at our Holloway campus. By allowing more precise, demand-based heating control, this radiator upgrade alone is expected to save around 106,000 kilograms of CO2e each year, equivalent to the combined emissions from heating, electricity, driving, and waste for 18 typical UK homes.
This more specific data makes it possible to compare performance between spaces, spot unusual patterns of use and cut waste more quickly. It also provides stronger evidence to guide long-term investment, such as where to prioritise refurbishments, insulation projects and low-carbon technologies.
“Sub metering is about precision,” says Project Manager David Batty. “By understanding our energy use in detail, we can fine-tune how our buildings operate. That means more comfortable spaces for students and staff, a smaller carbon footprint for the University, and stronger evidence to guide future investment.
“We will soon be introducing alarms that flag unusual or out-of-hours energy use such as plant or lighting left running, along with reports to help us analyse data, reduce consumption and shape future energy saving projects.”
More accurate control of heating, cooling and lighting supports a more consistent and comfortable working environment. Cutting unnecessary energy use also delivers financial savings, ensuring more resources can be directed into teaching, research and student support.
Driving environmental and sustainability goals
This work strengthens London Met’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 on Climate Action. Sub metering builds on the progress already reported in the Estates Annual Report, which highlighted a 16 per cent reduction in carbon emissions since 2018/19. By giving the University clearer data on where and how energy is used, it becomes easier to maintain that downward trajectory and continue embedding sustainability into everyday operations.
Creating vibrant campuses with cutting-edge technology
The installation is part of London Met’s Estates Transformation programme, a major multiyear investment to create greener, more accessible and better equipped campuses. Alongside new social learning spaces and improved facilities, the programme is embedding sustainable design and smarter energy management into every stage of development. Sub metering adds to this wider effort by ensuring decisions are grounded in evidence and by unlocking the data needed to keep improving.
Matthew Brewster, Director of Estates, said: "The Estates Transformation programme is about more than buildings. It is about creating campuses that are modern, sustainable and responsive to the needs of our students and staff. Sub metering and smart radiator valves are a good example of the kind of behind-the-scenes improvement that often goes unnoticed but makes a real difference. By using technology and data in this way, we can run our estate more intelligently, reduce our environmental impact and create better spaces for staff and students."