News

CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches has invested $10.6 million to implement a sustainable energy efficiency initiative in conjunction with Énergère. About fifty energy reduction projects have been carried out in 16 buildings in Lévis, Bellechasse, Lotbinière and Nouvelle-Beauce.

16 EFFICIENT BUILDINGS

In addition to energy savings, this initiative led to improvements in reliability, service quality, and comfort, since building systems now work better. Facility modernisation and renewal of electromechanical infrastructure have also led to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, which helps CISSS accomplish its social mission.

Work took place during a 20-month period between 2015 and 2017. The main steps consisted of:
• Modernizing boiler rooms
• Updating 14,000 light fixtures
• Heating and air conditioning review
• Air source energy – energy recovery and heat pumps

Among the 16 buildings involved in this initiative, the Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis health centre hosted the most energy efficiency measures. This building’s air source energy and heat pumps alone produce 50% of this initiative’s total energy savings.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

From an environmental standpoint, CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches has reduced energy consumption by 34 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 60 per cent. Conversion of the cooling cycle at the Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis has led to an annual reduction in water usage equivalent to 5.6 Olympic pools.

With regards to technology, heat-pump-based solutions have reduced dependence on fossil fuels by 63 per cent, replaced by hydroelectricity produced in Quebec.

This project’s environmental impact has enabled CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches to set itself apart in its community and to prove its commitment to sustainable development.

PERFORMANCE MONITORING

Énergère was chosen to design the initiative, perform the work involved, support operating employees as they master new technologies, and monitor the initiative for ten years, during which time both technical and financial performance of the initiative is guaranteed.

The investment will be paid for by 2026, taking into account energy savings of $820,000 per year, as well as $2.8 million dollars in financial support from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Énergir and Hydro-Quebec.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR BETTER HEALTH

At the same time, an awareness campaign for the hospital community called “Energy Efficiency for Better Health” has been launched. To learn more, visit santeenergetique.ca. (French only)

Watch the story, filmed at the Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis, on our YouTube page. (French only)

December 20, 2018