Healthcare businesses could save over £200,000 a year on average from solar energy applications on previously unused car park space, according to research from Solspan, which claims to be the only UK company specialising in solar car port installations.
Solspan says the research – which spanned multiple sectors – ‘underscores the adaptability and widespread advantages of solar car ports’. The company said: “For healthcare organisations, solar car ports can help power essential medical equipment and reduce energy costs in facilities that operate 24/7, allowing hospitals and clinics to allocate resources more effectively while enhancing their sustainability efforts. Beyond cost efficiencies, solar car ports could play a critical role in reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainability targets.”
Solspan continued: “By generating renewable energy on site, businesses can slash operational costs, achieve energy independence, and meet increasing environmental regulations. The environmental benefits are equally compelling. Solar car ports could cut the sector's annual CO2 emissions by over 23 million kilograms, equivalent to 767 round-trip flights between London and New York, and reduce emissions by 230 million kilograms over 10 years.”
The EV charging capabilities of solar carports could also power over 427,000 electric vehicles annually, translating to 4.2 million EVs over the same period, Solspan says.
To help healthcare businesses realise these benefits, Solspan has launched what it dubs ‘an innovative online calculator’. It explained: “By simply inputting the number of car parking spaces, businesses can instantly calculate their potential annual financial and carbon savings.
This tool provides tailored insights, making it easier for companies in the healthcare sector to make informed decisions about adopting solar car port solutions. The study, based on publicly available data, evaluates the average number of car park spaces for businesses across different sectors, annual sunlight hours for each area, and current business electricity rates.”
Clifford Huntley, Research and Development director at Solspan, said: “This analysis underscores the immense potential of solar car ports in delivering both economic and environmental advantages.
“Our goal is to support businesses in the healthcare sector in making informed decisions that contribute to a sustainable future while also enhancing their bottom line. Our new savings calculator is an invaluable tool for businesses to visualise their potential savings and environmental impact.”
For businesses concerned about upfront costs, Solspan also offers financing options.