NHS announces energy efficiency funding

A new ?100 funding deal has been announced by the Department of Health which will help the NHS meet energy saving targets.

Savings made from energy gains will be invested back into patient care, the department said, as health minister Andy Burnham published a new energy performance report. The report claims “substantial progress” has been made against energy efficiency and carbon emission targets.

The funding will help the NHS improve electrical efficiency, building insulation and combined heat and power installations. Changes will also contribute towards the government’s climate change programme.

Mr Burnham lauded NHS organisations which are “pioneering innovative cost-saving energy schemes”, however, he added that more of these schemes should be put in place across the NHS.

“The reduction of carbon emissions and greenhouse gases is important for the environment and helps people lead a healthy life. Saving energy also means cost savings in the long-term that trusts can spend on improving patient care,” the health minister added.

Apparently, the NHS is using more power because it is occupying more space, while energy efficiency is increasing. Environment secretary David Miliband welcomed the initiative, saying it will help the NHS meet targets and reduce carbon emissions.

On average, the energy performance of health service buildings has improved six per cent since the start of the decade, AFX claims.