Trust staff’s energy pledge to put over £1m into patient care

The campaign is aiming to reduce the Trust’s energy bills by 15%, which would save up to £800,000. In addition, the Trust hopes to cut the carbon tax for its energy footprint, currently over £300,000. The savings will go straight into the health spend budget.

Staff are being asked to sign a pledge to be energy champions, and to turn off lights and computers when they are not in use, turn down radiators and reduce cold air flows.

Ulster, Lagan Valley, Downe, Ards and Bangor hospitals will get a visit from a roadshow, in partnership with Power NI. As well as advice about the workplace, staff will be offered home energy checks and advice about saving energy and money in the home.

Launching the campaign, DIrector of Finance and Estates Neil Guckian said: “I would urge everyone to become an energy champion. We are reducing our energy footprint by 3% per year, and everything we save can go back into the healthcare spend.”

Wilma Stewart of Power NI said: “We are delighted to be part of this campaign, and also to help staff save money on their energy bills at home.”