Nelson & Colne College Group is set to become one of the first further education colleges in the country to commit to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.

The college’s campuses in Accrington and Nelson will undergo a significant transformation over the coming months, replacing fossil-fuel-based heating systems as part of an £8 million green energy retrofit.

This project aligns with the college’s strategic goal to combat climate change and demonstrates a substantial commitment to sustainability, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality 15 years ahead of the UK government’s net zero target in 2050.

Lisa O’Loughlin, principal and chief executive of Nelson & Colne College Group, said: "This project represents a major milestone in our sustainability journey.

"By striving to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, we are setting a strong example for our students and the community.

"We are not just educating about sustainability; we are living it."

The initiative is a response to the growing environmental concerns of the college's 13,000-strong student body and will reduce the college’s burning of fossil fuels by more than 90 per cent.

The college, in partnership with the HI Group, drives to gain sustainable transformation to decarbonise organisations and to identify the most effective and viable green energy solution over two years of analysis and planning.

These efforts have culminated in a detailed emissions reduction strategy and a three-step energy retrofit plan.

First is electrifying heating systems by installing electric-powered heat pumps, with the second step being the installation of solar panels to generate renewable power on-site, and the third is optimising energy use by using battery storage and smart energy controls.

The official "spade in the ground" ceremony at Accrington & Rossendale College was attended by figures including chair of governors Phil Wilkinson, Lisa O'Loughlin, Shelagh Legrave the Further Education Commissioner, and the Mayor of Hyndburn Councillor Mike Booth.

Representatives from HI Group and the principal contractor Lorne Stewart were also in attendance.

Russell Burton, director and founder at HI Group, added: "We are immensely proud to have partnered with Nelson & Colne College Group in transforming its extensive campus into a model of sustainability.

"For the HI Group team, it's a privilege to deliver a solution that will benefit not only the institution but also the wider community for generations to come."

The project is expected to be completed by March 2025.