Photo courtesy of: Greg Land

UMass Amherst launches phase two of campus carbon reduction

May 18, 2026

PROJECT NEWS

Phase two to take on the carbon reduction of energy systems on campus


The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) has launched phase two of its ambitious campus carbon reduction plan – a major milestone in the flagship campus’ broader Carbon Zero initiative, which will enable campus-wide growth towards its sustainability goals.  

In phase two, the university is inviting students, faculty, and staff to help shape the path for replacing the campus steam system, electrifying building heating and cooling, geothermal deployment, expanding renewable energy sources, and more. 

The initiative reflects UMass Amherst’s long-term goal of powering its 1,500-acre campus entirely with renewable energy while dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To university leaders, this isn’t just a sustainability investment, but an opportunity for UMass Amherst to serve as a model for other large research institutions navigating the transition to clean energy. 

Brailsford & Dunlavey is proudly supporting UMass Amherst’s sustainability planning efforts with financial modeling and cross-campus engagement. The project is led by RMF Engineering.

Read more about UMass Amherst’s phase two decarbonization planning effort here.

"The leadership and information from B&D, and the clarity with which they provide it, brings added credibility to the process and ensures that a range of university stakeholders, including senior leadership and our board, are fully informed for – and confident in – their required decision making.”

B.J. Crain, Former Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration
Texas Woman’s University

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