Momentum Builds with Energy Accelerator Building Approval

GNA is thrilled to share that the new Energy Accelerator Building for the University of Birmingham has just received planning approval.

This cutting-edge research facility will pave the way for advancements in Hydrogen and alternative fuel systems, thermal storage and cooling systems, materials research, and battery technology. With a strong emphasis on integrating Smart systems, it will enable groundbreaking research on energy usage within the building and across the wider university campus.

Featuring a striking black facade, the building prioritises energy efficiency through its advanced thermal and air-tight construction. Designed to minimise heat loss and reduce energy consumption, it offers flexible laboratory spaces for the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

As the future home of the Birmingham Energy Institute, this facility will foster collaboration among academics and researchers, providing agile workspaces to attract top talent and secure new research funding.

Covering 2300 sqm of new floor space, this low carbon, smart-enabled state-of-the-art facility is designed to engage with academics and commercial partners. This provides an agile workspace for the Ph.D. researchers and Academic leads, as well as a flexible approach to laboratory use complete with a range of gasses, electrical supplies, and Local Extract Ventilation.

The space will also include a digital twin-control room used for the research of energy systems in both the building and across campus, whilst additionally providing a display of data for use in research, communication, and teaching.

The building is being designed to a very ambitious low carbon standard of 350kgCO2e/m², accompanied by features including a high-performance façade and glazing specification. Alongside this, we incorporated thermally very low u-values and air tightness which are more aligned to the Passivhaus Standards. With a focused approach to reducing embodied carbon in the manufacture and construction (A1-A5).

GNA looks forward to progressing this scheme for delivery in 2026