Madera Community Hospital completed the installation of a 1,140 kilowatt ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array through a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA). The array produces 2,183,220 kWh annually and offsets approximately 40% of the hospital's electricity consumption.
Should hospitals install a solar system?
Installing a solar system can lead to significant savings of up to 50% or more on electricity costs over the system's lifetime. Not only that, but it can also serve as a hedge against fluctuating electricity prices, providing long-term financial stability for hospitals.
Can a hospital install solar PV?
Implementing solar PV in hospitals may encounter several technical challenges. These may include the age and condition of a hospital's existing electrical systems and its buildings' size, layout, and orientation. But these obstacles can be overcome with advances in technology and flexible installation options that address site-specific issues.
Can solar power a hospital?
The hospital installed a 30 kW solar system with battery backup that can power its critical loads, such as ventilators, incubators, and operating rooms. The solar system has reduced the hospital's dependence on diesel generators and improved its reliability and resilience.
How does a hospital Solar System work?
A third-party provider installs and maintains the solar system and sells the electricity generated back to the hospital at a predetermined rate. Another financing option is leasing, where a company provides and maintains the solar system for an agreed-upon period while charging rent on hospital equipment in their facility.
Here are some of the benefits of solar for hospitals: Hospitals can benefit from utilizing solar power as it offers a sustainable and cost-efficient solution to their power needs. Installing a solar system can lead to significant savings of up to 50% or more on electricity costs over the system's lifetime.
What financing options are available for a hospital's Solar System?
However, several financing options can help offset these costs and make going solar more affordable. One option is a power purchase agreement (PPA). A third-party provider installs and maintains the solar system and sells the electricity generated back to the hospital at a predetermined rate.