Hospitals are places of healing, yet their energy demands tell a different story. These critical facilities, operating around the clock to save lives, consume vast amounts of energy, much of it still sourced from fossil fuels. In a country like South Africa, where energy stability is often uncertain, this reliance not only drives up costs but also conflicts with healthcare’s core mission: to protect and promote health.

Solar energy = the solution? It’s not that straightforward. 

The Growing Demand for Solar Solutions in Healthcare

As you know, hospitals require energy 24/7 to power life-saving equipment, maintain sterile environments, and make sure patients are comfortable. What is less obvious is hospitals’ contribution to global emissions, estimated at 4.4% of total net emissions (Solarus and Greenline Africa, 2024). 

Hospitals are particularly energy-intensive, with 66% of their energy dedicated to heating and cooling and 34% used for general electricity needs (Solarus and Greenline Africa, 2024). Essential systems like ventilation, lighting, and critical care equipment require constant power, which makes energy efficiency and sustainability challenging. 

In addition, South Africa’s 696 hospitals – 48% of which are privately operated – face an annual heat demand of 331 GWh. Yet solar thermal solutions currently cover less than 0.4% of this energy (Solarus and Greenline Africa, 2024). This highlights a vast, untapped potential for renewable energy in the sector. 

To cover even 20% of the heat demand, hospitals would need a solar collector area of approximately 150,000 m² (Solarus and Greenline Africa, 2024). 

The Power of PV-T Technology

Solar is particularly well-suited for healthcare because it provides consistent, scalable power that meets the sector’s unique and intense energy needs with minimal environmental impact. And yet, traditional solar panels are also extremely limited in their capabilities.

Unlike conventional photovoltaic systems, photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) technology captures both electricity and heat from the sun, creating a dual-purpose solution that addresses hospitals’ high demand for electrical and thermal energy.

PV-T technology’s benefits extend beyond energy savings to financial and environmental advantages. Compared to standard PV systems, PV-T offers three times the profitability, four times more energy per square metre, and a fourfold reduction in CO₂ emissions. 

Case Study: How Solarus Supports Greener Hospitals

At Solarus, we’ve had the privilege of working with hospitals to realise the advantages of PV-T. A recent project involved a private hospital in the heart of Cape Town, where we installed our unique photovoltaic-thermal technology solar solution to help them on the path to greater energy independence and cost savings. 

In a presentation on 100% Renewable Hot Water Systems for Hospitals, presented by David Volkwyn with statistics gathered by Solarus and Greenline Africa, we revealed that the hospital’s PV-T systems now cover up to 70% of its annual hot water demand and even supply 100% of its hot water needs during the summer months. In addition, the hospital’s energy balance highlights PV-T’s efficiency: while heat pumps contribute 33% of the heating requirements, solar PV-T systems cover the remaining 67%.

Remarkably, the PV-T system’s electricity consumption exceeds that of the heat pump, further reducing dependence on the grid.

Estimated Savings in Healthcare Facilities 

Implementing a PV-T and Heat Pump (HP) integrated solution in hospitals offers a compelling financial and environmental case, particularly given traditional energy sources’ high and steadily increasing costs. 

Here’s a breakdown of the business benefits and assumptions behind this investment, taken from an Anonymised Hospital Project, 2024 compiled by Solarus.

• Total Estimated Savings (25 Years): R 108,595,513.

• Internal Rate of Return (IRR): 28.98%.

• Return on Investment (ROI): 991%.

• Payback Period: 3.73 years.

• Sustainable Investment: R 9,957,783 (excluding VAT).

• Eligible Tax Benefits (Section 12B): 34% of CAPEX, subject to approval (consultation with a tax accountant recommended).

These numbers underscore the PV-T + HP system’s long-term financial viability. With a payback period of just under four years, the investment begins to yield positive cash flow relatively quickly. 

Why Invest in Solarus’ Solution for Greener Healthcare

Solarus’ solution allows hospitals to take control of their energy needs in a way that few other renewable sources can match, making it a competitive advantage in the healthcare sector.

• Clean and renewable. Unlike coal or gas, which produce high levels of greenhouse gases, solar generates energy without emitting carbon, aligning directly with hospitals’ goals of reducing their environmental footprint. 

• Scalable. Solarus’ solution can be adjusted to meet the specific energy demands of a hospital, from small clinics to large multi-campus healthcare facilities. This adaptability makes it easier for hospitals to plan and implement a phased transition to renewable energy, starting with the most energy-intensive areas and expanding as savings are realised.

• Grid Independent. Solar-powered hospitals can continue operating essential equipment and services in emergencies or during grid outages, safeguarding patient care and safety. 

Contact us to join hospitals in South Africa as they adopt and reap the rewards of Solarus’ solution. We’ll arrange a feasibility study first, and then we can discuss the exciting next steps.  

References

• Anonymised Hospital Project High-Level Proposal – Shift One. (2024). Hybrid solar panels: A two-in-one solution. Presentation.

• Solarus and Greenline Africa, (2024). 100% renewable hot water systems for hospitals: Evolution of PV-T technology. IFHE PP Final. Presentation.