2005 Finalist

The purpose and goals of energy management in a health care environment

An energy-saving drive at Christchurch hospital has saved $180,000 that can now be used to fund patient care and lead to more comfortable conditions for people using the hospital buildings.

The saving resulted from many changes - for example during the power crisis in 2004, lamps were removed from a number of light fittings throughout the hospital. This resulted in reducing the electricity used, while light levels in corridors and common areas remained above OSH standards.

When the power crisis was over, nearly all the light fittings that had lamps removed, were upgraded to new technology tubes and more energy efficient controls.

Other energy saving efforts included using a computerised air-conditioning plant and managing lighting so vacant areas were not using energy.

A clear strategy for energy management is vital to controlling expense within an organisation.

Christchurch Hospital now has a fully comprehensive energy management strategy in place and this, together with a detailed monitoring and targeting regime, has ensured that the performance indicators for energy have continued to improve despite rapid development of the site and challenges posed by severe weather patterns.

Canterbury District Health Board
Contact: Jan Nicholson 03 337-8780
Email: Jan.nicholson@cdhb.govt.nz