RUH secures grant £21.6m for Climate Action in Healthcare

RUH received £21.6m to replace aging heating systems with energy-efficient options, reducing emissions by 24% annually by 2026, accelerate climate action in healthcare industry

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In a major step towards sustainable development, the Royal United Hospitals Bath (RUH) NHS Foundation Trust has received a £21.6m grant to upgrade its energy systems Funding by the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero is an important step in the healthcare industry’s transition to a greener future.

The main focus of this investment is on a thorough refurbishment of the hospital system, with environmentally friendly lighting, insulation and temperature control key and RUH is planned to significantly reduce its carbon footprint by earmarking most of the money to replace outdated heating systems with energy efficient strategies such as heat pumps.

Cara Charles-Barkes, CEO of RUH, highlights the importance of this initiative in their journey towards net zero emissions by 2030. She highlights the critical role that such support plays in the important transformation of its heritage, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to environmental stewardship by enhancing the patient experience.

At the heart of this effort is collaboration, with RUH working closely with the Carbon Energy Fund to carefully formulate and implement their plans. With a careful focus on operations and sustainable development, RUH aims to reduce carbon emissions by an impressive 24% annually by 2026.

Looking ahead, the focus is on the safety of the project’s contractors, which is set to unfold over the next couple of years. Steven Heap, project manager at the Carbon Energy Fund, emphasizes continued support throughout the construction phase and the subsequent 15-year operating period, ensuring the promised carbon savings are delivered.

For stakeholders invested in renewable energy updates, this development serves as a beacon of progress. It underscores the tangible strides being made towards a net zero future and offers valuable insights into practical strategies for reducing carbon emissions. As the healthcare sector leads the charge towards sustainability, it sets a precedent for other industries to follow suit, driving collective efforts towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.