HSA leading Government’s green initiative with one of the largest rooftop solar panel installations on the Island
The Health Services Authority (HSA) recently completed one of the largest rooftop installations of solar panels and equipment in the Cayman Islands. This installation puts the HSA among the corporate leaders for environmental sustainability and a leader among Government agencies pursuing green initiatives in the Cayman Islands.
Once powered up, the 250kW system is expected to produce an equivalent amount of clean energy to power 50 private homes in the Cayman Islands.
According to HSA’s CEO Lizzette Yearwood, “this project is our flagship solar panel system installation and part of a broader initiative to ensure more healthcare dollars go into staffing and patient treatment, and less into operational overhead. Our efforts in 2021 included replacement of decades old windows to improve thermal protection, replacement of old chiller systems to high efficiency equipment, and the replacement of bulbs across the main campus with more energy efficient LEDs.”
HSA Board Chairman, Osbourne Bodden stated “The Board’s commitment to sustainable operations is part of the HSA’s strategic initiative towards clean energy and overall efficiency improvements. These fit within our current facility modernization programme which will improve the overall patient experience at all HSA facilities and ensure healthcare remains affordable and accessible.”
Mr. Bodden also noted that the savings accrued from these combined energy initiatives is sufficient to cover the cost of six nurses. At the same time, it is making the HSA a more sustainable organization, and a local leader in efforts to reach the aspirational goals outlined in the National Energy Policy.
“The HSA procured a full upgrade to its wastewater treatment plant and also rolled out a waste recycling programme as additional green initiatives in 2021” commented the HSA’s CEO. “Whilst the environmental benefits are important, these upgrades will ultimately provide a better experience for our patients,” said Ms. Yearwood.
The solar panel installation was carried out by local company GreenTech Solar following a competitive procurement process earlier this year.
