District energy:
Campus decarbonization
at WWU
Western Washington University | Bellingham, Washington
The road to carbon neutrality
Western Washington University (WWU) is a leading public university located in Bellingham, WA. Serving more than 14,000 students across a 215-acre campus, WWU is committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint while continuing to provide a high-quality learning environment. Consertus supported WWU to advance its decarbonization strategy.
Western Washington University
Advisory | Delivery
Higher Education
215-acre campus
Defining a clear path forward
Defining a clear path forward
WWU’s heating infrastructure currently relies on an aging gas-fired steam plant and distribution system to heat its campus, which accounts for roughly 85% of the university’s direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions.
The plant emits over 11,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions annually and suffers from significant inefficiencies, with 15% of energy lost in steam production and an additional 30% lost in distribution.
Outdated technology, staffing needs, and volatile gas prices make retaining the system increasingly challenging. To address this, WWU engaged Consertus to provide owner advisory, program management, and community engagement support, helping the university define a clear path forward.
Advancing the strategy with an integrated approach
Consertus partnered with WWU to advance its decarbonization strategy. Our team is developing a detailed project implementation plan that:
- Analyzes system configurations and emerging technologies
- Identifies project procurement methods and facilitates team selection
- Explores opportunities for integration with regional thermal energy networks
This integrated approach ensures the university has the right partners, strategies, and tools in place to transition to a modern, lower-carbon heating and cooling system.
Positioning a decarbonization leader
This project positions WWU as a leader in campus decarbonization. By replacing its gas-fired steam system, the university is on track to eliminate 85% of Scope 1 and 2 emissions, reducing its carbon footprint. It ensures compliance with Washington’s Clean Buildings Act (HB 1257 & HB 1390) and the Climate Commitment Act (RCW 70A.45.020), with funding sourced through the state’s cap-and-invest program.
The project also fosters broader community benefits, including workforce training, policy alignment, curriculum development, and student and faculty engagement. The completion of the project is anticipated by 2031.
eliminate 85% of Scope 1 and
2 emissions, reducing its
carbon footprint.
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