NHS Borders is pushing ahead with its drive towards net zero with a bid to install ground mounted solar panels close to the region’s main hospital near Melrose.
This week an application was submitted to Scottish Borders Council for installation of 679.68 kWp ground mounted solar PV array consisting of 1,152 individual panels on land adjacent to Borders General Hospital, in support of the health board's targets of achieving net zero carbon and assisting with their decarbonising agenda.
NHS Borders, which has 31 buildings with a mix of uses such as hospitals, health centres and office space, has a stated aim to become a net zero organisation by 2040.
In recent times it has continued to implement a programme of lighting replacement, moving to LED wherever possible, and has upgraded laundry equipment and kitchen equipment to maximise energy efficiency.
In addition, boilers have replaced been within some of our community hospitals.
Ground-mounted solar panels are installed on the ground instead of on a building’s roof.
They allow for optimal placement to maximize sun exposure, resulting in higher energy production.
Ground-mounted systems are highly versatile and can be adjusted for the best tilt and orientation.
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