Fieldhead Hospital solar project supports Trust’s journey to net zero
We are making significant progress towards our sustainability ambitions with the installation of 1,326 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at Fieldhead Hospital in Wakefield.
The scheme includes both rooftop-mounted solar panels and a new solar carport at Newton Lodge, helping the Trust maximise renewable energy generation while making productive use of its existing estate. Once fully operational, the installation is expected to generate around 880,240 kWh of renewable electricity each year, reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering carbon emissions across the site.
The project forms part of our wider commitment to reducing its environmental impact and supporting the NHS ambition to become the world’s first net zero health service. Alongside the solar PV scheme, the Trust has secured a further £6.5 million of government funding to deliver low-carbon heating projects, including the installation of air source heat pumps across parts of the estate.
Modrek Zandy, senior planning manager, said: “This project represents a significant step forward in the Trust’s journey towards achieving its sustainability and Net Zero ambitions. Securing external funding has enabled us to deliver a major renewable energy investment that will reduce carbon emissions, improve energy resilience and generate substantial savings for the Trust.
“The combination of renewable electricity generation and low-carbon heating technologies will help us move closer to our Net Zero targets while delivering meaningful financial savings that can be reinvested into frontline services and patient care.”
The solar installation and planned heat pump projects are expected to improve long-term energy resilience, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and deliver utility savings of around £100,000 per year through reduced electricity and gas consumption.
Sustainibility Change Manager Tony Wright added “The Fieldhead solar project is a visible demonstration of our commitment to creating a more sustainable NHS. By generating renewable energy on site, we are reducing our environmental impact while building a more resilient estate for the future. Sustainability is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s about making sure we continue to provide high-quality care in a way that protects the health of our communities and the environment they depend upon.”
Building on the success of the Fieldhead scheme, the Trust has also submitted a funding application for a similar project at Kendray Hospital in Barnsley, as it continues to explore opportunities to improve sustainability and energy efficiency across its estate.
