Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

Baku State University Advances Sustainability: Expands Low-Carbon Energy Monitoring Across Campus

Baku State University (BSU) is taking significant steps to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and climate action by expanding the measurement and use of low-carbon energy across its campus. This initiative is a key component of the university’s 2023–2030 Climate Action Plan and directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

“BSU is committed to integrating sustainability into every aspect of campus life,” said Rector Elchin Babayev. “By expanding the monitoring of low-carbon energy usage and promoting renewable energy solutions, we are leading by example in Azerbaijan’s higher education sector.”

Key Achievements and Initiatives

• Partial Energy Monitoring: BSU currently measures low-carbon energy consumption in approximately 45% of campus buildings, including the main academic buildings, central administrative offices, student dormitories, and a renewable-energy demonstration zone.

• Renewable Energy Infrastructure: The university has installed a solar-wind hybrid charging station and rooftop solar panels on the Faculty of Physics building, generating around 12 MWh/year of clean electricity.

• Energy Audits: Annual internal audits evaluate electricity and heating consumption, as well as carbon intensity, allowing BSU to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

• UI GreenMetric Recognition: BSU’s energy policies and sustainability efforts have been recognized in the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, demonstrating the university’s global commitment to sustainable operations.

Baseline Findings (2024)

• Total electricity consumption (measured buildings): 3,200 MWh/year

• Share of low-carbon/renewable energy: 11%

• Projected growth in renewable energy by 2030: ≥ 30%

Future Plans

BSU aims to expand monitoring to 100% of campus buildings by 2026. Planned initiatives include:

• Installation of smart metering systems for electricity and heating.

• Collaboration with national and international partners to increase renewable energy sourcing.

• Annual publication of the BSU Sustainability and Energy Report starting in 2025.

“Through these initiatives, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also educating future leaders on the importance of climate action,” added Dr. Ilyasov Asiman, BSU Sustainability Coordinator.