A ground-breaking contract has been signed between Vital Energi and London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust to guarantee energy savings of £1.9m a year at Northwick Park Hospital.  

The 15-year performance-based contract will see the implementation of a self-funding, fully-integrated energy solution. 

Measures will include the conversion from the existing steam heating system to a Low Temperature Hot Water (LTHW) distribution infrastructure. 

This will be supplied by a modern, highly-efficient gas-fired combined heat and power unit, complete with a selective catalytic reduction system, LTHW boilers, and solar photovoltaic arrays. 

The solution also includes the introduction of an innovative combination of water and air sourced heat pumps and a battery energy storage system, which will help create a smart grid from which the local community will benefit, together with a range of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) funded by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). 

Widespread improvements

As well as a 643kWp solar PV array on the roof, there will also be optimisation and upgrades to the existing Building Management System, pipework insulation, and the retrofit and upgrades of existing air handling units and chillers, all specifically designed to reduce the energy consumption and the overall carbon emissions of the hospital.

The PSDS funding, which is administered by Salix on behalf of the Government’s Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), was secured through the combined efforts of the Trust and Vital Energi teams working together to submit a complex application within an extremely-challenging timeframe. 

Ashley Malin, managing director of Vital Energi Solutions, said: “Having supported the trust through its PSDS application, we’re proud to have designed an optimum energy solution which aligns with the aspirations for the future development of the hospital by providing space within the energy centre to introduce additional energy technologies.

Guaranteed savings

“As well as guaranteeing a significant reduction in carbon emissions along with substantial financial and energy savings, we’re working alongside hospital staff to ensure energy services continue as normal and the patient experience is not affected.”

Mark Trumper, director of estates and facilities at the trust, added: “The financial savings and the eradication of high-risk backlog maintenance cannot be underestimated at an NHS trust.

“However, we are extremely proud to be part of a team that will save 2,500 tonnes of carbon every year in London. 

“This was only deliverable through complete collaboration, an innovative commercial model to maximise value, and an expedited project delivery within a long-term partnering arrangement.”