Introduction
Widnes Health Care Resource Centre opened in 2006 and is operated by the National Health Service (NHS). The Centre is also home to Oaks Place Surgery, a small GP practice that has been based in Widnes for the past 30 years providing patient centred care.
The aim of the centre is to promote and deliver effective comprehensive primary health care services to the highest available standard for all individuals from a friendly and supportive environment.
The Challenge
The health of the environment and of people is damaged by pollutants released and resources used in delivering health care. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is a useful proxy measure of reduced environmental impact. A report released in September 2013 reinforces the scientific basis for taking action to accelerate progress on reducing man-made carbon emissions to protect health both now and in the future.
The NHS has a goal of reducing carbon emissions 34% by 2020, required to align with the Climate Change Act target. There is still a 28% reduction required due to progress made between 1990 and 2013 and the NHS are looking for quick but effective methods to help further this progress.
The Solution
Voltage optimisation from Powerstar was shown as a quick, effective and efficient method of reducing carbon emissions at the site along with making savings on electrical consumption and energy costs.
A Powerstar 226kVA system was installed at the site, eliminating 46.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year giving a return on investment of 2 years and 3 months.
Savings & Benefits
- Annual reduction in energy consumption: 15.7%
- Tonnes of Carbon Dioxide saved: 46.8 tCO2
- Annual financial savings: £8,385
Benefits
The reduction in energy consumption of 15.7% eclipsed the guaranteed saving of 9.7% provided pre-installation by 6% with a annual saving of 86,445kWH.