The multi technology system, engineered and delivered by Cornwall based renewables specialist ZLC Energy, provides clean, reliable power to operating theatres, diagnostics, and inpatient wards day and night, supported by integrated battery storage and a bespoke energy management system.
RJAH’s annual electricity demand, like most NHS hospitals, is high, typically 3.3–4GWh, driven by ~200 inpatient and critical care beds, 15 operating theatres, and full MRI/CT diagnostic suites. The new system offsets around 75 per cent of the hospital’s grid electricity use, generating 2.5–3GWh of clean energy annually and delivering £750,000 in yearly savings. Carbon emissions are reduced by ~600 tonnes per year, comparable to the electricity use of 1,000+ UK homes.
The fully integrated solar plus storage system includes:
- 3MW solar PV, deployed across every viable rooftop and carport structure on the live hospital estate.
- 650kWh battery storage, enabling stored solar to support clinical operations overnight.
- A bespoke energy management system (EMS) that balances generation, storage, and demand across theatres, wards and estates operations.
- Carport structures engineered for continuous public use, vehicle clearance and rapid installation in busy hospital parking areas.
The system was delivered over six years (2020–2026), maintaining programme continuity throughout the pandemic and working around clinical operations without disruption.
RJAH’s rural grid connection required careful integration of large scale generation and storage. ZLC Energy designed a full energy management solution that ensures safe operation within DNO export limits while maximising on site consumption.
Mark Smith CEng CEnv mCIWEM, director at ZLC Energy, said: “We’re proud to have delivered a full energy management solution that allows this large solar and battery system to dovetail seamlessly into a rural, complex grid. The 650kWh battery system captures excess solar generation during the day and powers the hospital at night.”
Nick Huband, director of estates and facilities at RJAH, added: “This should be the blueprint for all NHS organisations.”