The University of Virginia (UVA) is a public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, UVA is known for its academic excellence, research, and innovation. The university is committed to sustainability and has taken several steps towards decarbonisation and promoting renewable energy.

UVA has a comprehensive sustainability program, which includes a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The university has already made significant progress towards this goal, reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 19% since 2009. UVA has also set a goal to source 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025. The university has already achieved this goal, sourcing 45% of its electricity from renewable sources in 2020.

One of the ways UVA is promoting renewable energy is through corporate power purchase agreements (PPAs). In 2015, UVA signed a 20-year PPA with Dominion Energy, which provides the university with 17 megawatts of solar energy from a solar farm in southern Virginia. The PPA is the largest solar energy contract signed by any university in the United States. The solar farm provides enough energy to power 3,800 homes and reduces UVA's greenhouse gas emissions by 11,000 metric tons per year.

UVA has also installed several solar panels on its own campus, including a 324-kilowatt solar array on the roof of the McLeod Hall building. The solar panels provide enough energy to power 60 homes and reduce UVA's greenhouse gas emissions by 300 metric tons per year. The university has also installed solar panels on the roof of the Aquatic & Fitness Center and the Central Grounds Parking Garage.

In addition to promoting renewable energy, UVA is also focused on corporate energy efficiency. The university has implemented several energy efficiency measures, including upgrading lighting and HVAC systems, installing energy-efficient windows, and implementing a building automation system. These measures have resulted in significant energy savings and cost reductions for the university.

UVA is also committed to decarbonisation and has taken several steps towards reducing its carbon footprint. The university has implemented a green building policy, which requires all new construction and major renovations to meet LEED Silver certification or higher. UVA has also implemented a green cleaning program, which uses environmentally friendly cleaning products and practices.

The university has also implemented a transportation demand management program, which encourages alternative modes of transportation such as biking, walking, and public transportation. UVA has also implemented a bike share program, which provides students and staff with access to bicycles for short-term use. These programs have resulted in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.

UVA is also committed to sustainability in its operations and has implemented several initiatives to reduce waste and promote recycling. The university has implemented a single-stream recycling program, which allows for the recycling of all types of materials in one container. UVA has also implemented a composting program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into compost for use on campus.

In addition to its sustainability initiatives, UVA is also committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The university has implemented several programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, including the Office for Diversity and Equity, the Office of African-American Affairs, and the Office of the Dean of Students. UVA is also committed to providing financial aid and scholarships to students from diverse backgrounds.

In conclusion, the University of Virginia is a leading institution in promoting sustainability and renewable energy. The university has taken several steps towards decarbonisation and reducing its carbon footprint. UVA's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its comprehensive sustainability program, which includes initiatives to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and diversity and inclusion. The university's efforts towards sustainability serve as a model for other institutions and demonstrate the importance of taking action towards a more sustainable future.