The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust secured funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, partnering with Vital Energi to deliver the project.
Decarbonising hospital systems
Vital Energi will install a 1.6MW air and water source heat pump system to provide low carbon heating, hot water, and chilled water across the hospital site. This will replace outdated steam boilers and gas-fired equipment, helping the Trust fully “de-steam” the hospital estate.
The funding also covers 675kWp solar panels, energy management system upgrades, and insulation improvements. These changes will significantly reduce energy consumption and enhance the hospital environment for patients and staff.
Inese Robotham, assistant chief executive and chair of the Trust’s climate group, said: “This is fantastic and exciting news for the Trust, and we’re delighted to have secured this funding. The Trust is committed to continuous investment in both our hospitals, particularly in areas which support greener solutions.
“This aligns with our vision of sustainable health services and more modern facilities that will improve the experience of our patients and colleagues.”
Optimising for efficiency
Vital Energi will develop a Digital Twin of the hospital’s heating and cooling systems, enabling real-time performance optimisation. The project, set to save the Trust £1m annually in energy costs, supports the Trust’s decarbonisation strategy and NHS plans to achieve net zero by 2040.
John Runniff, account development director at Vital Energi, said: “Vital Energi are delighted that our proposed solution was selected by the Trust, and we are excited to be delivering this innovative carbon reduction project at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.
“The complex and robust solution, coupled with a 15-year Energy Performance Contract which guarantees savings, supports the Trust’s long-term sustainability and carbon reduction plans, placing them firmly on the path to a net zero future.”
Supporting a greener NHS
The project is funded by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), administered by Salix on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Ian Rodger, director of programmes at Salix, added:
“The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is having a huge impact across the country, and we are delighted to be working with the teams at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.
“The funding will not only deliver a more energy efficient hospital and support the Trust’s carbon reduction plans, but it will help create a more comfortable environment for patients, staff and visitors.”
Images: Vital Energi