DANVILLE -- A pretty intricate looking power system here at Geisinger Medical Center near Danville. One that is easily saving Geisinger millions of dollars.
"We've lowered the cost of energy per square foot on this campus from $3.01 back in 2011 to now, $1.69 per square foot. "
2.6 million dollars in savings to be exact, and now an energy star recognition by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Also known as a co-generation unit, the system installed back in 2011, makes electricity at a much higher efficiency than a power plant.
"We're utilizing the waste heat where a power plant cannot, so what we've got is a gas turbine that burns natural gas, the shaft power turns the generator, that generates electricity."
Neuner says, the waste heat goes into a boiler and makes steam. That supplies the hospital with its heat load to power machines, lights and its heating system.
The co-generation unit also makes air conditioning at night and stores it, then uses the AC during the day.
This system has cut back on energy which not only helps the environment, but also helps patients.
”As we reduce the amount of energy we use, we also improve air quality which improves health."
And Neuner says, this system has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 16 thousand tons per year!
And for that, Geisinger is now listed on the EPA's website for energy star certified buildings.