Recovery plan: UM obtains nearly €18 million for the energy renovation of its buildings
In line with the construction and renovation projects undertaken by the University as part ofOperation Campus or the State-Region Plan Contract (CPER), the University of Montpellier presented various projects in response to the call for proposals launched by the State last September as part of the economic recovery plan known as "France relance."
"Eleven of our projects have been selected for a total amount of €18 million. This success recognizes the reality of our needs, but also demonstrates the relevance and maturity of our proposals," says Philippe Augé, President of the University of Montpellier.
A challenge for the teams
The challenge for the teams was commensurate with the stakes, as the government gave institutions barely a month to submit their projects. Three major energy and ecological renovation projects were put forward: the main building ofthe UFR STAPS, several buildings on the pharmacy campus, and a building on the Triolet site, all of which "require major work to improve energy performance, as well as renovation and restructuring of the premises,"says Bernard Maurin, Vice President for Real Estate and Sustainable Development.
Other less costly operations thatoffer "quick returns, i.e., a return on investment within a few years, are also being considered," says the vice president. This will involve replacing inefficient equipment such as boilers (Faculty of Law and Political Science, Sète Mediterranean Coastal Environment Station, Pharmacy Campus) or windows (historic Medicine Building), as well as installing energy management systems (dual-flow air handling unit for Building 5 Triolet, thermostatic valves in Building A of the Nîmes medicine building, and centralized technical management in the Saint-Priest mechatronics hall).
A tight schedule
However, all this work will have to be carried out within a very tight schedule. "The contracts must be awarded before the end of this year and the work completed before the end of 2023. This is another challenge, this time an operational one," explains Bernard Maurin. "But we understand the logic behind it, as it is also a question of reviving business activity and therefore employment," continues Philippe Augé.
This will keep the University's teams fully occupied over the coming months, particularly the real estate management department and the procurement department. "A specific organization has been set up to enable these projects to be carried out," adds Philippe Augé, emphasizing that: "Environmental and energy management issues are fundamental, and we are grateful to the government for helping us toaddressthem. Let's not forget that our infrastructureisone of the things that makes our institutions attractive," concludes Philippe Augé.