Ice Thermal Storage System Saves VA Hospital Money
Just prior to the end of last year, the Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System (VACHS) completed a campus rehab project that has earned several energy-related awards and is due to earn more. Innovative lighting and chiller plant rehabs, plus new controls, a plate-and-frame heat exchanger, and an ice thermal storage system are saving this facility an average of $700,424 per year in operating costs.
In compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and Executive Order 12902 to reduce energy consumption in federal buildings by 30% by the year 2005, the Department of Veterans Affairs sought to identify ways to reduce its operating costs and improve the facilities’ atmosphere for both employees and patients. It also wanted to take advantage of utility rebate monies offered by Southern Connecticut Gas and United Illuminating Company, and it needed to identify ways to finance the building improvements.
VACHS is a complex of 28 buildings (including two, 12 story high-rise structures) spread out over 42 acres. Its space includes 1,125,000 sq ft, 1,200 people, 350 beds, plus specialty care, and blind rehabilitation centers. The complex dates back to the 1920s, and the high-rise buildings were constructed in the early 1950s. A central chilled water system was installed in 1964.