The Prince Charles Hospital (PCH)

THE CLIENT
Prince Charles Hospital was opened in 1978 and operates as an integrated acute and community trust. Consuming approximately 6.5M kWh of electricity per year, with around 3MkWh produced internally via a combined heat and power plant, the hospital has 434 beds.

THE BRIEF
RUMM were asked to conduct an initial survey to identify areas where consumption could be reduced and waste consumption minimised.

THE PLAN
With the survey highlighting several site wide areas for savings, including lighting and air conditioning systems, testing machinery and sterilisation plant, PC systems and vending machines. In particular the catering section demonstrated potential for large savings. RUMM also undertook a survey of motors and drives at the hospital and identified 33 motors requiring replacement.

In addition, the MRI scanner machine was identified through data analysis as an area for savings. Discussions with the manufacturer and installation company meant an improved shut down procedure was implemented.

A project to replace the 30 year old lift equipment with newer, more efficient technology was also undertaken, and variations to the operational schedule of the CHP system were identified to create more savings.

THE RESULTS
Instantaneous payback was achieved with the MRI modifications, and as a result of the reduced energy consumption of the new lift, it was possible to install a sixth lift.

In just 8 weeks, 12% electricity savings were generated, leading to an evaluated annual saving of at least £70,000. This equates to an energy saving of 1000M kWh and reduction in C02 emissions of 400 tonnes.

WHY IT WORKED
With a bespoke approach to the public sector, RUMM were able to identify low cost / no cost methodologies that did not put additional pressure on the strict budget controls in place in the NHS.

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