The New Vic Theatre begin a series of environmental improvement works this week to help reduce its energy usage and carbon footprint. Works include upgrading current windows to make them more efficient, installation of solar panels and a smart heating control system that will significantly reduce energy usage.
As part of the programme of improvements, the theatre have welcomed two Keele University students to the team, through the University’s ‘Flourish’ programme. Brandie Boit, Environmental Programme Evaluator and Kunkuru Meritei, Sustainability Researcher, will take on separate fully funded 100-hour projects for the theatre linked to its environmental improvements, alongside their Master of Science degrees in Environmental Sustainability and Green Technology, and Computing Science respectively.
Brandie will evaluate and report on different elements of the environmental programme, actively comparing the improvements made against existing energy consumption. These findings will be used to report back to project funders and inform how the theatre monitors data going forward.
Kunkuru will work with industry professionals to research and recommend options for the installation of both Solar PV and EV charging points, including projected costs, savings and procurement.
New Vic Theatre Manager David Sunnuck said: “Keele University have been a key partner in the New Vic’s own journey to become a more sustainable organisation. Through them we were made aware of the Flourish programme and were eligible to apply for two student placements with industry specific knowledge to help us get the most from our programme of environmental improvements. We are thrilled that Brandie and Kunkuru applied, and are now joining us on that journey. We are confident they will bring with them benefits of their previous relevant experience as well as knowledge from their current studies at Keele University. It’s a really positive project that we’re sure will benefit all parties involved and we look forward to working with Brandie and Kunkuru.”
The New Vic recently underwent a Green Solutions Energy Review through the Staffordshire Business and Environment Network (Sben) which recommended improvements to the building including the replacement of window glazing, doors, boilers and pumps; as well as installation of motion sensor lighting and smart room temperature controls.
It is estimated that through this scheme, the theatre could save 360,000 kwh per year and reduce its carbon footprint by 68 tonnes.
The New Vic’s environmental improvement project has received investment from Arts Council England, the Denise Coates Foundation, Staffordshire Business and Environment Network (Sben) and the Theatre’s Trust Theatre Improvement Scheme, in association with the Wolfson Foundation.
Keele University’s Flourish programme is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, through Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council. Any local Newcastle SME organisation or sole trader can find out more about the Flourish scheme and how they can get involved by emailing Flourish Manager Philippa Richardson at p.richardson@keele.ac.uk
For more information about the upcoming environmental improvements keep an eye on this page!