Grantham and other Lincolnshire Hospitals have benefitted from over 10,000 new energy efficient lights being fitted, as part of a major piece of work to enhance the patient environment and cut their carbon footprint.

As part of a £4 million energy performance contract with Veolia, upgraded lighting has been installed at Lincoln County Hospital, Pilgrim Hospital in Boston, and Grantham and District Hospital.

The new lighting systems will enhance the patient care environment, cut carbon, deliver a 91% energy saving, and electrical operating savings of around £400,000 per year to United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

The upgrade has covered the installation of 10,106 LED light fittings, which are linked to smart controls and sensors that monitor ambient light and presence, meaning that they are only on when the area is occupied- saving electricity and making better use of NHS resources.

These mean an improved quality of lighting throughout each hospital building, with annual energy savings of 4,522,344kWh per year, and CO2 savings of over 2,400 tonnes.

As part of the energy performance contract, there are many other changes going on to reduce carbon, including a new combined heat and power plant, boiler enhancements and electrical infrastructure upgrades and control systems.

Associate Director of Estates and Facilities at ULHT, Claire Hall, said: "We are delighted to have been able to install new lighting throughout our sites, which both give better quality of light and also save electricity. They have contributed to making a lot of our patient and staff areas lighter and brighter.

"Sustainability, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction are some of our key priorities, and we have already made great strides in reducing our carbon footprint."

John Abraham Chief Operating Officer - Industrial, Water & Energy UK for Veolia said: "We look forward to continuing our work with United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust and helping them achieve their carbon reduction targets.

"The new energy performance contract will now extend their efficiency and sustainability, and make a real difference to the patient care facilities. The efficiency savings will also make a big difference to the Trust's budget."