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Bronllys Hospital switches to sustainable energy

Edited by the Buildingtalk editorial team Apr 15, 2005

Bronllys hospital became the first NHS hospital in the UK to generate electricity from sunlight via photovoltaic or solar - electric technology.

In February 2005 Bronllys hospital became the first NHS hospital in the UK to generate electricity from sunlight via photovoltaic or solar - electric technology.

The installation of the 60kW photovoltaic array was carried out by Dulas , from Machynlleth, Powys with the help of local tradesmen such as roofers and electricians.

The system will generate around 45,450 kWh each year, enough to displace around 20 tonnes of carbon dioxide - one of the key gasses causing climate change.

Since commissioning, the system has already generated over 7000 kW hours.

Ian Draisey, Head of Marketing said "Dulas were delighted to win the Bronllys Hospital contract.

The installation of the 60kW solar arrays on the hospital roofs presented an interesting technical challenge.

It is great to have the opportunity of completing such a prestigious photovoltaics project so close to home.

Dulas Project Manager, Nick Mills commented "how well the installation progressed, and that this was in no small part due to the excellent preparation and organisation of Powys Local Health Board".

Powys Local Health Board which manages Bronllys Hospital is the first to make the link between reducing the use of fossil fuels, associated pollution and impacts on health, and have constantly tried to improve and raise awareness of energy use within the hospital, through the Carbon Trust's 'Action Energy' programme.

Powys LHB originally approached the regional charity, Mid Wales Energy Agency (MWEA) to explore the options for renewable energy at the site.

MWEA assisted in helping to develop the project through providing information and sourcing funding which came from the Objective 2 European Regional Development Fund, Powys County Council and the Countryside Council for Wales, via Mid Wales Energy Agency; and the DTI's Major Solar Demonstration Programme.

Income from the electricity generation to Powys Local Health Board will be re-invested into further energy efficiency measures.

A spokesperson for the Board said ' Powys LHB is very pleased to be pioneering energy efficiency and renewable energy for the public health sector.

The work on the hospital went very well.

There was no disruption to hospital services and we were also pleased with the smooth installation of the system''.