Stellenbosch University sets a precedent with its first net zero carbon building

A building of Stellenbosch University was certified as the first net-zero carbon building on a university campus in South Africa, said the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).

Net Zero Carbon modelled certification is an assessment of a building’s predicted annual carbon emissions based on its design, which is used to determine whether it meets net zero standards. The process involves first implementing energy efficiency measures, then offsetting any remaining emissions through renewable energy generation or verified carbon credits.

The university accepted the certification for the Extension Building at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) on Thursday, October 2.

“There has not been another Net Zero Carbon modelled certification from another university. Net Zero Carbon was achieved for the Lapala Wilderness School (in Limpopo), but no other university has achieved this,” said Dash Coville, technical manager at GBCSA.

Reaching Net Zero Carbon Level 1 (Modelled) is an achievement that reflects proactive design decisions that lock in efficiency, performance, and sustainability, Mr Coville added. This building was designed with net zero intent, setting a strong foundation for Net Zero Carbon Level 2 (Measured).

The university’s director of environmental sustainability, Nadeem Gafieldien, said this achievement aligns with the goal of the university to have all new buildings achieving net zero carbon operations by 2030, and all existing facilities by 2050.

The STIAS Extension integrates a suite of innovative features from orientation and solar shading to natural lighting that minimises energy use. 

“At its core, a 46,8 kWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system generates clean, renewable energy that offsets the building’s operational consumption,” said Japie Engelbrecht, the university’s director for planning and development at facilities management.