I recently had the opportunity to engage in a detailed discussion with Sarah Mitchell, a Senior Project Manager at Veolia, regarding their transformative initiative at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. Veolia is leading a project aimed at substantially decarbonising the hospital’s heat supply, marking a significant advancement not only for the institution but also setting a benchmark for healthcare facilities across the United Kingdom.
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Sarah, exuding a calm yet professional demeanour, delved into the intricacies and magnitude of the project. “We’ve been managing energy at the University Hospital of Hartlepool since 2003, primarily through combined heat and power (CHP),” she explained. “However, this new endeavour is unprecedented in the UK. It integrates a ground source heat pump, thermal store, solar arrays, and CHP to develop a highly efficient and resilient energy system.”
The project incorporates a 1,400kW ground source heat pump system, bolstered by 1MWp of renewable electricity generated from ground and roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays. “The heat pump will draw from two boreholes, providing N+1 redundancy. This configuration ensures continued efficient operation even if one borehole fails,” Sarah noted with evident satisfaction.
One of the most compelling elements of this initiative is the utilisation of a 70,000-litre thermal store. “The thermal store allows us to operate the heat pump at a higher load during peak efficiency periods, charging the store and subsequently depleting it over several hours,” Sarah elaborated. “This approach not only optimises efficiency but also balances the hospital’s electrical and thermal demands.”
Veolia’s specialist energy team has developed a sophisticated smart control strategy as a key component of the project. “We’ve engineered a bespoke management solution using smart controls to balance the power generated by the solar PV system and the CHP, along with the thermal output of the heat pump and CHP,” Sarah detailed. “This smart control strategy will enhance overall system efficiency and provide additional resilience to the site through carbon balancing.”
The project also necessitates extensive electrical infrastructure upgrades to support the new plant and equipment, including an expansion of the existing high voltage (HV) ring main. “We’re upgrading the air handling units and installing LED light fittings throughout the buildings to further improve energy efficiency,” Sarah added.
It became clear through our conversation that this project extends beyond mere engineering; it signifies a pivotal stride towards a more sustainable NHS. “Veolia has been providing energy management to the University Hospital of Hartlepool for over two decades, and this new project will further extend efficiency and carbon savings,” Sarah remarked. “Innovation is crucial to making a tangible difference and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. This latest upgrade exemplifies what can be achieved in the healthcare sector as part of our Green Up strategic programme.”
Steve Taylor, Group Director of Estates for University Hospitals Tees, echoed Sarah’s sentiments in a recent statement. “These upgrades will position the University Hospital of Hartlepool as one of the first hospitals in the country to employ an aquifer-based ground source heat pump system. This involves a blend of cutting-edge renewable technology and local geology to efficiently heat the building for much of the year,” he said. “Additionally, solar panels will provide green electricity, reducing the need for imported grid electricity.”
Steve also highlighted the broader implications of the project. “These advancements will result in substantial reductions to our carbon footprint, while ensuring the best care for our patients and safeguarding the environment for our local community.”
As our interview concluded, Sarah expressed her enthusiasm for the project’s future. “This initiative represents a significant investment and an exciting opportunity for Veolia and the University Hospital of Hartlepool. We eagerly anticipate the considerable environmental benefits and the positive impact on patient care.”
In essence, the University Hospital of Hartlepool’s new energy project, managed by Veolia, represents a pioneering effort that integrates multiple renewable technologies to create a highly efficient and sustainable energy system. This project serves as a model for other healthcare facilities striving to meet the NHS carbon reduction targets for 2030, demonstrating the innovative solutions necessary to combat climate change while ensuring superior patient care.
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