110 x 400W Solar panels
50kw solar inverter
3.2 Years Real Payback time
31% Return on investment
Reduced total powerbill by 71%
Sunshine Solar: Solar for healthcare
Executive Summary:
The Ilam Medical Center, a large institutional healthcare provider in Christchurch, has implemented a 48.4 kWp solar power system, marking a significant step toward operational sustainability and cost reductions. This case study analyzes the performance of the solar system over its two operational years, assessing energy yield, consumption, export, and environmental impact.
Results:
1. Energy Yield and Consumption The total energy yield from the solar system was 136.31 MWh. The self-consumption rate averaged 67.82%, signifying a high utilization of generated solar energy. The highest yield was recorded in January 2024 (9,633.640 kWh), indicative of peak summer conditions.
2. Grid Independence and Export The center has achieved a significant reduction in grid energy reliance, with 32.18% of the solar energy produced being fed back into the grid, reinforcing its role as a prosumer in the energy market.
3. Financial Impact The solar investment has led to a 71% reduction in the center’s power bills, translating to substantial cost savings and a swift progression towards the system’s return on investment (ROI).
Environmental Contributions:
1. CO₂ Emission Reduction Over the reporting period, the solar system has avoided approximately 64.75 tons of CO₂ emissions. This contribution is equivalent to removing over a dozen cars from the roads annually.
2. Coal Saving The center’s shift to solar has resulted in saving 54.52 tons of standard coal, avoiding significant air pollution and environmental degradation.
3. Equivalent Trees Planted The environmental impact of the center’s solar energy production is akin to having planted 89 trees, further emphasizing the positive ecological footprint of the center’s sustainable choices.
Conclusion:
The Ilam Medical Center’s foray into solar energy is a resounding success, with substantial financial savings and a commendable reduction in environmental impact. The center’s initiative serves as a benchmark for renewable energy integration in the healthcare sector, providing a replicable model for others to follow.
