Energy and Infrastructure
A programme of energy infrastructure improvements and upgrades are ongoing across the site, which support hospital operations and our Climate Change Commitments.
An essential element of the site vision and strategy is building the foundations for a pathway to net-zero. The design of the new infrastructure is fundamental to transitioning the site to a low-carbon future, while meeting the current needs of an operational site.
We will significantly reduce carbon emissions by investing in high-efficiency energy systems and low carbon technologies. Importantly, energy infrastructure improvements will be addressed in the context of the site masterplan framework. This will improve:
- the site users’ experience, making the environment more comfortable
- future financial performance, by optimising energy usage
- site flexibility and operational resilience, helping to make it future proof
- the operation, maintenance and safety of systems
Due to the scale, complexity and needs of local projects, a phased programme is being undertaken to deliver:
- replacement of steam boilers and distribution, with higher efficiency low carbon alternatives
- upgraded electrical infrastructure, including both the high voltage and low voltage distribution
- increased site resilience utilising layers of backup systems, rather than traditional standalone technologies
Phase 1 is currently on-site and is establishing the first zone of the new site heating network. The next phase, which is in development, will aim to expand the heat network and upgrade the main site electrical infrastructure.
Overall, these projects will ensure that high quality and sustainable services continue to be provided at the Western General in the coming years.
