The HSE has achieved certification to the ISO 50001 global energy management standard for its approach to continuously improving energy efficiency and performance.
ISO 50001 is the world’s leading Energy Management Standard and provides a systematic approach for organisations to achieve continuous improvement in terms of energy performance.
The HSE achieved a 20% reduction in energy related emissions and 34% improvement in energy efficiency performance by the end of 2023. It is currently in the process of reporting of 2024 data to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.
This certification builds on the work done to date by HSE Capital and Estates, in partnership with the Department of Health and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), to establish the systems and processes necessary to improve energy performance. These include monitoring consumption, conducting energy audits, setting energy performance targets and identifying opportunities for energy improvement.
Bernard Gloster HSE CEO said, “As one of the largest energy users in the public sector, the HSE recognises the impact its activities have on the environment and is committed to responsible energy management. On the journey towards certification, the HSE has worked closely with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland to implement best practise, improve monitoring and complete energy management projects across the healthcare estate, striving to lead by example, act
“Achieving ISO 50001 certification highlights the HSE’s commitment creating greener facilities which will not only help in terms of the impact on our climate but also benefit the people to whom we provide vital healthcare services. It is an important step in the implementation of the HSE Climate Action Strategy, HSE Capital and Estates Strategy and the Infrastructure Decarbonisation Roadmap and to achieving our 2030 energy and carbon emission reduction targets.”
Peter Smyth, Assistant National Director and National Lead HSE Capital and Estates Sustainable Infrastructure Office said, “Energy efficient healthcare facilities have positive consequences for human health, creating a more comfortable and controllable environment for patients and staff, and can improve the quality of patient care. Achieving ISO 50001 certification provides an important recognition of the work undertaken by HSE Capital and Estates to integrate energy management into operations and continually improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions from our buildings.”
