Decarbonisation project for the NHS

The NHS have set an ambitious aim – to be the world’s first net zero national health service. As part of their decarbonisation project they have set specific targets:

• For the emissions the NHS control directly (the NHS Carbon Footprint) to reach net zero by 2040, with an ambition to reach an 80% reduction by 2028 to 2032;
• For the emissions the NHS influence (NHS Carbon Footprint Plus) to reach net zero by 2045, with an ambition to reach an 80% reduction by 2036 to 2039.

Figure 2 shows that a significant area for opportunity (or challenge) for change is in estates & facilities – building energy. The NHS estate and its supporting facilities services – including primary care, trust estates and private finance initiatives – comprises 15% of the total carbon emissions profile. There are significant opportunities seen in energy use in buildings, waste and water and new sources of heating and power generation.

As part of the decarbonisation efforts, Amspec are working with Urban Design Consult to support a shift to on-site renewable energy and heat generation across a number of their estates, allowing them to optimise the way the buildings are used.

Most recently, we have worked on Mile Lane Health Centre (pictured) and Edgerton and Dunscar.

Works on Mile Lane Health Clinic includes:

• Supply and installation of PV solar panels – this will provide a renewable source of electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering carbon emissions.
• Supply and install electric LDT panel heaters including switched fused isolator – this offers more efficient heating solutions compared to traditional systems thus reducing energy consumption.
• Automatic controls and wiring / Installation of absence lighting controls & PIR sensors – sensors ensure lights are only on when needed, cutting down unnecessary energy use.
• Supply and install of internal and external windows and doors – improving insulation, minimising heat loss and further enhancing energy efficiency.

We are proud to be working alongside Urban Design Consult to help the NHS in their efforts to achieving net zero.