Posted on Monday August 26, 2013
An update to Lakeridge Health Port Perry’s heating system is the next step in a plan to make the hospital energy efficient and eco-friendly. Three of the four boilers on-site are being replaced with high efficiency models and part of the heating system will also be converted from steam to hot water, an energy efficient alternative that reduces heat loss.
“By switching to a more efficient way of heating our hospital, we’re reducing our impact on the environment and saving money that can be invested back in what really matters—health care for families in this community,” says Kevin Empey, President and CEO, Lakeridge Health.
Earlier this year, Lakeridge Health Port Perry took the first step toward clean, green energy with the installation of solar panels on the roof. The energy overhaul will also include switching to more energy efficient light bulbs and installing motion sensors that turn off or dim lights not in use, as well as upgrading the hospital’s cooling and ventilation systems.
Energy-saving efforts at the Port Perry hospital will result in a 24 per cent drop is energy use and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 397 tonnes—enough to power 59 homes. Lakeridge Health is also planning energy efficient projects in Oshawa, Bowmanville and Whitby. In total, the project is expected to save $46 million.
Fast Facts
- Because steam systems operate at a higher temperature than hot water, they give off more radiant heat to their surroundings.
- In addition to new boilers, two hot water tanks are being replaced with a system that does not require a reserve tank, drastically reducing the risk of bacteria growth.
