Veolia operates solar hospital car park

Resource management firm Veolia has worked with 3ti solar car park specialists to deliver renewable energy generation at Eastbourne District General Hospital (EDGH).

By installing a new Solar Car Park (SCP), the hospital will produce 1,000 MWh of solar-generated electricity annually, and lower CO2 emissions by 222 tonnes in the first year. 

The new solar array comprises more than 2,412 solar panels across eight canopies that cover 400 car parking spaces. As high energy users, the hospital will make significant savings by generating its own renewable electricity on site, and reduce the hospital’s reliance on electricity from the national grid. 

The SCP also addresses the need for workplace electric vehicle (EV) charging by providing ten solar-powered EV charge points for staff use.

With funding provided through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme for affordable, low carbon energy efficiency upgrades across the public sector, the scheme is one of the first to take a whole building approach.

Chris Hodgson, Director of Estates and Facilities at East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “The completion of the new solar array is another significant step on our journey to net zero. The solar farm alongside other improvements, including new insulation and heat pumps, at Eastbourne DGH will lead to a significant reduction in the use of energy across the site which will be a key part of our work to provide sustainable healthcare.” 

John Abraham, Chief Operating Officer – Veolia  UK & Ireland –  Industrial, Water & Energy said: “Achieving the NHS net zero targets, and maintaining the essential patient care facilities, requires a holistic building approach. By using the areas above the car park this latest project is an excellent example of how we can transform the space above ground level to deliver renewable energy.

Tim Evans, Founder & CEO at 3ti added: “This project is a win-win for all parties: the SCP provides low-cost and low-carbon electricity for the hospital, car park users benefit from the cover and lighting provided by the canopies, and staff with EVs can charge their cars whilst at work.”

Image from 3Ti

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