Americas First All-Electric Hospital to Open in Irvine
UCI Health is set to launch America's first all-electric acute care hospital in Irvine, situated at the northern edge of the UCI campus. This pioneering facility, part of a $1. 3 billion medical complex, is engineered to optimize energy efficiency and sustainability. It will operate solely on renewable energy, utilizing rooftop solar panels and wind energy procured from Southern California Edison, with diesel generators available for backup during outages. The seven-story hospital will encompass 144 beds, surgical and emergency care, and various wellness programs.
Patients will benefit from recycled water and sustainable food sourced locally, enhancing their overall experience. The design includes a ramping system to ensure universal access to the adjacent San Joaquin Marsh, promoting a connection to nature. UCI Health's initiative seeks to guide other hospitals in adopting environmentally friendly practices. This groundbreaking approach underscores the growing trend of sustainability in healthcare.