A hospital is set to benefit from a multi-million pound investment to support its journey towards net zero.
Croydon University Hospital (CUH) has been awarded nearly £15 million through the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to upgrade its London Wing with greener, more energy-efficient infrastructure.
The scheme will be delivered by Salix on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
It will help Croydon Health Services NHS Trust cut carbon emissions, reduce energy costs, and create a more comfortable environment for patients and staff.
Matthew Kershaw, chief executive of Croydon Health Services and the borough’s place based leader for health, said: “This investment is about more than energy efficiency – it is about creating a safer, healthier hospital for our community.
“Patients, visitors and staff will notice the difference, with warmer wards in winter, cooler spaces in summer and a more comfortable environment all year round.
“At the same time, we will be cutting our carbon footprint, lowering energy bills and taking another step towards our goal of becoming a net zero NHS by 2040.
“By replacing old gas boilers with clean, low-carbon heating and upgrading the building fabric, we are tackling one of the biggest sources of emissions on our site.
“These works will help to start to future-proof our facilities, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and ensure taxpayers’ money goes further – supporting frontline care where it matters most.”
The upgrades, scheduled to begin in autumn 2025 and complete by March 2028, are expected to deliver multiple benefits, including improved ward temperatures, better ventilation, and healthier air quality.
Lower emissions will contribute to cleaner air and support climate change efforts, particularly benefiting Croydon residents with long-term health conditions.
Reducing energy costs will also free up additional funds for patient care, supporting the trust’s goal of financial and environmental sustainability.
Ian Rodger, director of public sector decarbonisation at Salix, said: “We are delighted to work with Croydon Health Services NHS Trust as it progresses its journey to net zero thanks to the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
“The NHS has ambitious targets to reduce emissions, and we have no time to stand still.
“The planned works will not only create a more comfortable environment for patients, staff and visitors but getting rid of the old gas boilers is better for the planet.
“We are proud to deliver the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme on behalf of government.”