Mount Saint Joseph (MSJ) Hospital is setting a new precedent in health-care sustainability with its Battery Energy Storage System.
Recognizing its electrical limitations and the need for energy resilience, MSJ is the first hospital to partner with BC Hydro on a new pilot program to address electricity demand response, with the potential to pave the way for others to join as well. The pilot project is the installation of two battery storage units that will store electricity during non-peak hours and deploy it during peak demand, reducing reliance on the grid while ensuring uninterrupted operations.
This initiative stems from MSJ’s participation in BC Hydro’s Demand Response Program, which incentivizes institutions to lower electricity use during high-demand periods. By joining, MSJ enhances energy efficiency and receives funding to reinvest in sustainability projects. The system also reduces reliance on diesel generators, providing a cleaner energy backup during outages.
A Model for Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
As the first health-care site in the region to implement battery storage under this program, MSJ is establishing a benchmark for energy efficient hospital operations. In the future, the plan is to integrate the battery storage energy system with a SHARC energy system, which recovers heat from wastewater, and can be powered by the extra energy the battery storage unit collects during low-demand time.
Together, these systems are expected to generate significant benefits:
- Annual cost savings projected between $100,000-150,000, depending on use
- A reduction of 153 tons of CO2 emissions annually
- Increased resilience against power outages, ensuring continuous patient care
- Reduced strain on BC Hydro’s electrical grid
Currently, the system is designed to store and discharge power based on peak demand. Future phases will integrate the battery system with MSJ’s rooftop solar panels, maximizing renewable energy utilization and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.
Navigating Challenges and Driving Innovation
Implementing this storage system presented challenges. Finding a vendor with the right battery specifications took time, and designing seamless integration with both BC Hydro’s grid and hospital infrastructure required extensive engineering collaboration. Additionally, spatial constraints led to repurposing part of the cafeteria for installation.
Despite these hurdles, MSJ’s leadership, in partnership with the Energy and Environmental Sustainability team, engineers, consultants, and BC Hydro, is successfully executing a forward-thinking energy strategy. Their commitment to sustainability demonstrates how essential service facilities can enhance resilience while reducing environmental impact.
The Future of Energy Storage in Health Care
With installation set for completion by the end of 2025, MSJ’s Battery Energy Storage System will serve as a model for other health-care organizations exploring energy storage as a sustainable solution. This initiative highlights health care’s role in leading sustainability efforts while prioritizing patient care and operational reliability.
