A quiet yet significant “green” transformation is underway in city hospitals. From generating solar power and using insulation to cut energy losses to treating wastewater and installing sensor lights, hospitals are taking steps toward sustainability. Many institutions are working toward green building certification in silver, gold, or platinum categories, ensuring their operations align with eco-friendly standards.
Tata Memorial Centre’s Solar Power Plan
On World Cancer Day (February 4), Tata Memorial Centre’s ACTREC in Kharghar unveiled a three-phase solar power initiative. The project aims to cut carbon emissions and save over Rs 1 crore annually once fully implemented. The first phase alone is projected to save Rs 50 lakh within its first year of installation.
Private Hospitals Join the Green Movement
A private hospital in the western suburbs started small by installing sensor lights in bathrooms, leading to savings of Rs 25 lakh in just one year. Meanwhile, three Fortis Hospitals in the city have dedicated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) departments. These departments focus on optimizing energy use, reducing water consumption, and managing biomedical waste efficiently. Their efforts have resulted in a 3.4% reduction in per-bed energy consumption and an 8.4% decrease in per-bed water usage.
Switching to Solar: A Game-Changer for ACTREC
Dr. Rashneh Pardiwala from the Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CERE) highlighted ACTREC’s successful solarization under the Switch on Solar program. Supported by BNP Paribas India, this initiative encourages the healthcare sector to adopt renewable energy. CERE has already helped 50 institutions, including schools, colleges, hospitals, old-age homes, and rescue centers, transition to solar power.
Hospitals and Their Energy Demands
ACTREC, like many energy-intensive healthcare institutions, relies heavily on electricity for high-tech diagnostic equipment, 24/7 treatment facilities, research labs, and air conditioning. By shifting to clean energy, hospitals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while also lowering operational costs. The savings from reduced electricity expenses can be redirected toward providing free cancer treatment, benefitting patients from marginalized backgrounds.
Slow but Steady Adoption of Green Practices
Dr. Vivek Desai, founder of healthcare consultancy firm HOSMAC, noted that the green movement in hospitals has gained traction in the past five years. While medical colleges are mandated to adopt eco-friendly technologies, private hospitals participate voluntarily. However, with rising energy costs and the long-term financial benefits of sustainability, private hospitals are now investing in green initiatives despite high initial costs.
A few years ago, Hitachi India Pvt Ltd provided a green makeover for AIIMS-Delhi, installing rooftop solar panels and upgrading its power infrastructure for free. These improvements resulted in a 30% reduction in energy consumption.
Investing in Sustainability Pays Off
Dr. Desai emphasized that hospitals with 50+ beds should move away from window or split ACs, which are not only expensive but also unhealthy. While central air-conditioning systems require a high initial investment, hospitals can recover costs within three to four years. This transition also improves indoor air quality and reduces exposure to toxic materials, creating a healthier environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
As reported by TOI, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) provides green ratings for hospitals. It was established by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to promote sustainable practices. Dr. Desai’s consultancy firm only takes projects that aim for at least a silver certification from IGBC.
Sustainability: A Necessity, Not an Option
A 2020 study in the Journal of Management Research and Analysis highlighted the economic advantages of green hospital buildings. A team from Mewati Government Medical College, Haryana, conducted the research.
The study found that environmentally conscious strategies can:
- Reduce operating costs by 8.9%
- Increase hospital value by 7.5%
- Boost occupancy ratios by 3.5%
With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, hospitals are recognizing that sustainability is no longer optional—it is essential.