Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust Accelerates Multi-Million Pound Hospital Decarbonisation Programme
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust is making major strides toward a net-zero NHS by investing £47.4 million over the next two years to overhaul energy systems across its hospitals. This forms part of a £120 million multi-year decarbonisation programme launched in 2021, aimed at significantly reducing the environmental impact of hospital operations.
The programme targets a 43% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from powering buildings and medical equipment compared to 2020/21 levels – equivalent to removing over 20,000 tonnes of CO₂e annually, or the energy used by more than 8,000 UK homes. Trust data shows a 27% reduction in emissions at Charing Cross Hospital alone between 2023/24 and 2024/25, demonstrating tangible early results.
Key programme highlights include:
- Installation ofadditional heat pumps and solar panels at Charing Cross and Hammersmith hospitals to replace gas-fired systems.
- Upgrades tocooling and insulation systems, enhancing energy efficiency across older buildings.
- Installation ofLED lighting and advanced electricity controls, reducing consumption while improving hospital environments.
Many of the Trust’s hospitals are over 170 years old, with aging infrastructure that is inefficient and at risk of failure. This decarbonisation programme not only reduces emissions but also strengthens energy resilience and modernises hospital estates.
Professor Bob Klaber, Director of Strategy, Research & Innovation and Net Zero Lead at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, said:
“Decarbonising our hospital buildings is central to our Green Plan. Securing over £110 million in funding since 2021 has allowed us to make a real difference. Our teams’ dedication is achieving impressive environmental and operational outcomes.”
Eric Munro, Director of Estates and Facilities, added:
“Replacing outdated gas boilers with heat pumps and renewable systems is complex but vital. The 27% drop in emissions at Charing Cross demonstrates what can be achieved. This programme improves sustainability, reduces estate risks, and benefits both patients and the planet.”
The Trust has leveraged Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) funding alongside its own capital investment, incorporating extensive enabling works such as plantroom upgrades, 8 km of piping, and refurbishment of 24 air handling units – all while maintaining uninterrupted hospital operations.
The programme aligns with NHS England’s 2032 target to cut directly controlled emissions by 47%, reinforcing Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust’s commitment to becoming a green NHS leader.
