Technological University Dublin

Decarbonising-by-District: How TU Dublin are pioneering two district heating projects

Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) commits to take urgent climate action to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations. Two decarbonisation case studies using district heating across two of our campuses are detailed here. The Tallaght campus is now heated by a District Heating network which uses waste heat generated from a nearby data centre, supplemented by water-source heat pumps. On the Grangegorman campus, the potential for deep-bore geothermal heating is being explored and is now in its second phase.

An initial trial borehole showed promising results, and the partners are actively exploring opportunities to develop a full production Deep Bore Geothermal well that would largely decarbonise heat on campus. Both projects are pioneering in national efforts to decarbonise.

Through these initiatives, TU Dublin aims to provide a minimum of 70% renewable space heating on site by 2030 and will engage in opportunities to extend these benefits to local communities.

What the Judges Thought

The judges were hugely impressed by this strategic project addressing the critical issue of waste heat from data centres. It’s inspiring to see HEIs taking the lead in this innovative field, showcasing the remarkable potential of partnership and collaboration.

With many institutions hosting data centres or located near private-sector facilities - both facing rising energy demands from high-performance computing, this case study demonstrates a significant opportunity for energy, carbon, and sustainability professionals to seize. Congratulations on your important achievement!

What it Means to Win

“TU Dublin’s success in major decarbonisation initiatives stems from our tenacious commitment to climate action and our partnership approach to advancing Ireland's first low-carbon district heating system and first deep borehole geothermal heating technology. Winning this prestigious Green Gown Award amplifies these exemplar projects and our roadmap towards net zero.”

Jennifer Boyer, TU Dublin Vice President for Sustainability 

Top 3 Learnings

1. There is great value in collaborating with community and societal partners.
2. Don’t be afraid to be the first to try something pioneering for your institution.
3. Avail of multiple sources of expertise from within your institution, as well as nationally and globally.