Per Energy Star, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE) program to protect the environment and promote energy-efficiency, hospitals use about 2.5 times more energy per square foot than an office building of the same size. From research, we know that emissions from fossil fuels are linked to a multitude of health conditions — which is why the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center is working to improve energy efficiency and transition to more renewable energy sources.
- In partnership with the Ohio State Energy Partners, an LED retrofit on the Columbus campus medical center buildings was completed of over 40,000 fixtures. We began construction on energy conservation measures, and we finished installation of smart meters.
- In fiscal year 2024, all medical center-owned buildings decreased energy use intensity by 0.7% from FY23 and approximately 38% of the electricity supplied to the medical center at main campus and off-site medical center locations was carbon neutral with renewable energy credits.
- The Engineering and Building Automation System teams implemented scheduled setbacks across several buildings, including the 395 W. 12th Ave. building. This resulted in a 27.2% reduction in energy use intensity at the 395 building, improving energy efficiency while keeping indoor conditions comfortable for staff and patients.
Carbon footprint by scope by year
Image above: This graph shows the historical Carbon footprint for Wexner Medical Center. Overall, the graph shows a steady decline in total carbon emissions from FY2019 to FY2024.