UK hospitals work with Vital Energi to decarbonise

Beyond the core heat pump installations, the project includes additional energy conservation measures at both sites, such as a rooftop solar PV installation, hydraulic system optimisation, and building management system enhancements.

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Vital Energi, who share our goals for improving sustainability,” said Julian Verity, head of estates at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

“The introduction of the air source heat pumps at both The James Cook University Hospital and the Friarage Hospital will help us to reduce carbon emissions across our hospital sites to support the future healthcare needs of our population.”

The project is being delivered under the Carbon and Energy Fund (CEF) for which Vital Energi has preferred bidder status and contracts are expected to be finalised shortly. The company is providing interim services to both hospital sites whilst construction progresses, ensuring continuity of energy supply throughout the transition period.

“Our aim is to become the Trust’s long-term energy services partner. We’ll operate and maintain the assets we’ve installed over a 15-year period and are committed to providing continuous improvement,” said John Runniff, account development director from Vital Energi.

“The NHS faces a significant challenge in meeting decarbonisation goals, and it takes strong partnerships like this – spanning funding, design, and on-the-ground delivery – to make those ambitions a reality”

“We will help them achieve their net zero objectives whilst delivering guaranteed cost savings and improved energy efficiency. In the past four years alone, we have delivered over £200 million of PSDS-funded projects across eleven hospital sites in the UK.”

The main contractor on the project is Geoffrey Robinson, the mechanical, electrical and construction contractor based in Billingham, Teesside. The selection of the company is further evidence of Vital Energi’s ambition to support the supply chain in the Northeast and grow its presence in the region where it has recently opened a new office.

“With over 20 years’ experience delivering mechanical, electrical, and construction services directly to the Trust, we’re excited to continue that legacy through our partnership with Vital Energim” said Andy Talbot, managing director of Geoffrey Robinson.

“As a local business, we feel a great sense of pride in supporting and improving public facilities that many of our own staff rely upon. The NHS faces a significant challenge in meeting decarbonisation goals, and it takes strong partnerships like this – spanning funding, design, and on-the-ground delivery – to make those ambitions a reality.”

South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides healthcare services across the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire from The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, Friarage Hospital in Northallerton and across multiple community hospital sites.