By Emily Norcross, Founder and CEO of Green CHP

Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are increasingly confronted with the dual challenges of soaring energy costs and the necessity to ensure reliable power and hot water supplies for their residents. The intricate balance of managing operational costs while maintaining a high standard of care is a persistent concern. Renewable Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, specifically utilizing Solar Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) technology, present a compelling solution to mitigate these challenges, offering economic, health security and environmental benefits.

Energy Demand and the Impact of Power Outages on Care Facilities

Energy consumption in nursing homes is substantial, driven by the need for heating, cooling, lighting, and the continuous operation of medical equipment. Additionally, the demand for hot water is significant, required for daily activities such as bathing, sanitation, laundry, and food preparation. The escalating costs of electricity and natural gas are exacerbating financial strains on these facilities, with utility expenses expected to rise between 40% to 60% over the next decade. This scenario not only threatens the economic viability of these institutions but also impacts the quality of care provided to residents.

Power Outages and Brown Outs Pose a Risk to Health and Life

Power outages in nursing homes and long-term care facilities pose severe risks and challenges. According to a 2021 study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), nearly 15% of nursing homes experienced at least one power outage per year. These outages can last from a few hours to several days, significantly affecting the well-being of residents.

During power outages, the failure of heating and cooling systems can lead to extreme temperatures, posing health risks such as heatstroke or hypothermia. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that elderly individuals are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, with approximately 700 heat-related deaths occurring annually in the U.S., many of which involve older adults.

The continuous operation of medical equipment is crucial. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association highlighted that power outages can disrupt the functioning of ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and other life-sustaining devices, leading to medical emergencies.

Hot water is critical for hygiene and infection control. A study published in the Journal of Geriatric Nursing found that inadequate hot water supply during power outages significantly increases the risk of infections and skin conditions among residents. Bathing and sanitation are essential daily routines, and any disruption can compromise the health and dignity of residents.

Power outages are no longer just due to storms. The frequency of brownouts and blackouts has been increasing due to grid reliability issues and the rising demand for electricity from the growing electrification of the economy. Aging infrastructure and deferred maintenance have made the grid more susceptible to failures, while the increased load from electric vehicles and other electric technologies has strained the system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), significant power outages in the U.S. have more than doubled over the past two decades, with grid stress from rising electricity demand expected to continue.

 

Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable to power outages due to their reliance on electricity for critical operations and resident care. Power disruptions can affect medical equipment, temperature control, sanitation, and food safety, posing significant health and safety risks to residents. For example, over 75% of nursing homes lack backup generators capable of supporting all necessary equipment during an outage.

The substantial energy consumption in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, combined with the critical need for hot water, highlights the vulnerability of these institutions during power outages. Addressing these challenges requires investment in reliable energy solutions and infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, especially as utility costs continue to rise.

The Case for Renewable CHP Using Solar PVT

Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems utilizing solar thermal technology present considerable advantages over traditional fossil fuel-based CHP systems, both economically and environmentally. Economically, solar thermal CHP systems minimize dependency on fluctuating fossil fuel prices, offering a more predictable and stable cost structure in the long term. This can result in significant energy cost savings; particularly as initial investments are increasingly offset by various government incentives which can pay for up to 50% of the total project.

Renewable CHP systems, particularly those harnessing Solar PVT technology, offer a dual benefit by generating both electricity and thermal energy. This innovative approach maximizes energy efficiency and reduces dependency on conventional energy sources. PVT panels capture solar energy to produce electricity while simultaneously converting excess heat into usable thermal energy, addressing the high hot water demands typical in nursing homes.

Renewable CHP systems enhance energy security by providing off-grid redundancy. In the event of a power outage, these systems can continue to supply essential power and hot water, ensuring uninterrupted care and maintaining the operational stability of the facility. This resilience is particularly vital in critical care environments where the continuity of services is non-negotiable.

Illustrative Model

Family Services Nursing Home, which houses 200 residents, requires between 6 to 9 million gallons of water annually for showers, sanitation, laundry, and food preparation. Utility costs for the facility range from $160,000 to $240,000 for electricity and $460,000 to $690,000 for natural gas. With energy costs projected to rise by 40% to 60% over the next decade, the nursing home faces a budget shortfall that could jeopardize its ability to provide adequate services and ensure the comfort and sustainability of the home.

To address this challenge, the nursing home installed 600 hybrid solar thermal-electric (PVT) panels on available rooftops, integrating them into the existing boiler and heating system. These panels provide a renewable source of thermal energy, significantly reducing the facility's dependency on natural gas for heating water. This innovative solution not only helps manage rising utility costs but also supports the nursing home's long-term financial stability.

The implementation of the PVT panels has resulted in substantial cost savings and environmental benefits. The nursing home has achieved annual savings of $90,000 on electricity and $32,000 on natural gas, amounting to approximately $2.5 million in savings over 20 years. Additionally, the reduced dependency on natural gas lowers the facility's carbon footprint, contributing to broader sustainability goals. The estimated reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is approximately 190,000 tons over 20 years, showcasing the significant positive impact of this renewable energy initiative.

The Role of Renewable Energy in Promoting Sustainability

Nursing homes adopting PVT systems not only benefit economically but also position themselves as leaders in sustainability. This proactive approach enhances their reputation and public perception, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, regulatory landscapes are increasingly favoring sustainable practices. By investing in renewable energy, nursing homes can meet environmental regulations more effectively and improve their compliance reporting. This shift not only ensures regulatory adherence but also contributes to long-term operational sustainability.

The Department of Energy (DOE) offers funding opportunities through initiatives like the Home Electrification Prize, which supports innovative solutions to retrofit homes and facilities for better energy efficiency and reduced emissions. This program focuses on underserved communities, including long-term care facilities. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) encourages nursing homes to improve their facilities through evidence-based methods, including energy efficiency and sustainable practices. While primarily focused on care quality, these programs often align with broader sustainability goals, potentially providing indirect support for green initiatives.

The integration of Solar PVT systems in nursing homes and long-term care facilities represents a forward-thinking solution to the pressing issues of rising energy costs and the need for reliable power and hot water. The economic savings, coupled with the environmental benefits and enhanced energy security, make a compelling case for the adoption of renewable CHP technologies. As these facilities strive to provide the highest standard of care, embracing sustainable energy solutions will play a pivotal role in ensuring their economic viability and operational resilience.

In an era where energy efficiency and sustainability are paramount, nursing homes that invest in Solar PVT systems will not only safeguard their financial future but also uphold their commitment to the health and well-being of their residents. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, these institutions can navigate the challenges of today while paving the way for a more sustainable and secure tomorrow.

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Contact us at (888) 405-1817 or at https://usgchp.com/contact-us/ to learn more about renewable CHP options specifically designed for nursing homes and long-term care facilities.