Purchases are made through Consip framework agreements, the Electronic Marketplace for Public Administrations (MEPA) and other e-procurement tools, including those made available by regional procurement bodies (Intercent-ER). Water supply and district heating contracts are entered into directly with the water mains operator.
Electricity
The University's extensive property network uses a considerable amount of electricity. This can change annually due to new connections, expansions, decommissionings, research projects and other temporary needs.
In line with the University's Strategic Plan, which aims to reduce energy consumption (Objective 48) and to promote an efficient and circular environmental management model (Objective 50), the University purchases electricity from renewable sources whenever available (Green Option).
Gas
The use of gas may vary with new connections and the refurbishment of spaces.
In terms of procurement, suppliers are selected through tenders managed by Consip and Intercent-ER in the relevant territorial lots.
Diesel and fuel oil
Some architecturally listed historic buildings still use heating systems powered by diesel or fuel oil. However, the University is progressively decommissioning these systems, replacing them with more sustainable solutions, and aims to complete the transition in the coming years.
As from 2024, there are no more buildings that use oil-fuelled heating systems, while in 2025 work is scheduled to start on the decommissioning of the only oil-fuelled power plant.
Thermal energy from district heating
To heat and cool some of its buildings, the University also makes use of district heating and cooling, the management of which is entrusted to the following suppliers:
- Hera for Bologna, Imola, Forlì and Cesena;
- SGR for Rimini.
In Bologna, the district heating service includes:
- new connections in the University Citadel and the Bertalia District;
- definition of a new rate, with a discount on the consumption quota in recognition of Unibo's 'large customer' status, and introduction of a 'price cap' on the power quota;
- implementation of innovative services for consumption monitoring and management.
Water
The use of water varies annually, with the activation of new buildings and the continuous refurbishment of spaces.
In terms of procurement, supply contracts are entered into directly with the water mains operator in the relevant area:
- Hera for Bologna, Imola, Cesena, Forlì, Rimini and Ravenna;
- ASET for Fano.