|
|
Earth Savers has performed over 400 energy efficiency
upgrade projects for health care facilities all over the United States. Five of the
top ten health care companies have chosen EarthSavers as their source of energy
efficient lighting products and services making Earth Savers the leader in the
health care market. Health care projects are the most difficult of all due to
the variety of applications, the sensitivity to disruption of operation, and
the numerous regulations and codes. However, health care facilities may also
have the most to gain from an energy “makeover”. |
|
 |
A twenty-four hour operation consumes energy twice or three times as fast as other businesses. Studies have
proven that proper lighting can play an important part in healing and can
improve conditions for employees and aging patients. An energy upgrade can
actually bring a facility into compliance with regulations governing light
levels and other requirements. Better performing systems means a better bottom
line, better working conditions and a higher level of patient care.
|
|
A major medical center of approximately half a million square feet located in
Palm Springs, California, Desert Regional Medical Center is now owned and
operated by Tenet Health System. The world class facility was a favorite
charity of Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and Dinah Shore.
The comprehensive energy conservation project involved a lighting retrofit and
installation of lighting controls. The scope of work included Installation of
electronic ballasts and T8 lamps, new linear fluorescent fixtures, new compact
fluorescent fixtures and hardwire retrofits of downlights, replacement of exit
signs and installation of occupancy sensors, photo sensors and timers.
|
Regulatory restrictions in California prevent delamping of fixtures in health
care facilities. The Howard Industries low power HEX electronic ballast and the
GE high color rendering SPX, ECO, 85 CRI, 4100K T8 lamps were used to maximize
light output with the lowest input wattage possible. Energy consumption was
reduced by 50% in the typical fluorescent fixture while light levels and
quality increased significantly. The aesthetics and functionality as affected
by the lighting have improved dramatically as observed by the hospital staff.
The low mercury ECO lamps reduce disposal costs. The facility received a grant
from the California Energy Commission based upon the amount of kilowatts
reduced. California is experiencing high utility rates and energy shortages.
| Summary: | |
| Annual Energy Savings | $196,000 |
| Annual Maintenance Savings | $17,000 |
| Total Annual Savings | $213,000 |
| Project Cost | $335,000 |
| Less: Energy Commision Grant | ($67,000) |
| Net Project Cost | $268,000 |
| Payback of Investment | 15 months |
|
|