As we continue delivering the priorities set out in our Green Plan, we are sharing our plans and progress towards reducing emissions, strengthening the resilience of our estate, and delivering a greener NHS as part of the wider NHS commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2040.
Our new Net Zero Carbon Strategy 2025–2040 provides a clear roadmap for how we will get there, focusing on practical actions, measurable progress, and meaningful change across our entire estate.
What will change and why it matters
Since launching our strategy we've made good progress and over the coming years, you will see a series of improvements across our sites designed to cut carbon, improve building performance, and reduce long‑term operating costs.
1. Transitioning away from fossil‑fuel heating
As we come to the end of the first year of the Green Plan, we have seen 13 air-source heat pump projects completed, along with other hybrid and far-infrared heating systems.
This year, we currently have 10-15 air-source heat pump projects lined up, with more being planned for the following year. The aim is to meet our Green Plan goal of 90 Decarbonisation projects completed by the end of the 3-year Green Plan period.
2. Improving energy efficiency across the estate
Energy efficiency has been a long‑standing priority for us, and we’ve already made significant progress. To date, we’ve invested in LED lighting upgrades, enhanced BMS and controls, and supported a range of low‑ and no‑cost actions with ongoing awareness initiatives.
These steps have already helped reduce energy waste and improve day‑to‑day building performance. Looking ahead, we'll keep strengthening our approach through further upgrades, including:
- Improvements to insulation and overall building fabric
- Expanded and smarter building controls and monitoring systems
- Continued behaviour‑change and awareness programmes
These changes will build on the progress we’ve made, reduce energy waste, improve working environments, and lower operational costs.
3. Increasing on‑site renewable energy
We are expanding on‑site energy generation through technologies such as solar PV, battery storage, and local heat networks, helping to reduce reliance on carbon‑intensive grid energy.
4. Transitioning to electric vehicles
In line with renewals, we are updating our transport fleet to electric and expanding access to electric vehicle charging across our sites, where possible to do so.
How We Will Deliver This Strategy
Achieving Net Zero requires coordinated action across people, processes, and systems.
People
We will continue to support colleagues with awareness campaigns and technical training to ensure everyone understands their role in reducing emissions.
Finance
Carbon impact will be integrated into business cases, design decisions, and procurement processes, enabling smarter investments that support long‑term sustainability.
Measurement
We will monitor our emissions annually and track progress against our 2040 target, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Energy Efficiency vs. Decarbonisation: Understanding the Difference
As we continue rolling out more projects, you may hear the terms energy efficiency and decarbonisation used frequently. They are closely linked, but they refer to different parts of our strategy.
Energy Efficiency: Reducing the amount of energy we use
Energy efficiency is about cutting waste. Examples include:
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Better insulation
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LED lighting
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Smart controls
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Routine maintenance to keep equipment running efficiently
These changes reduce demand, improve comfort, and lower energy bills.
Decarbonisation: Reducing the carbon intensity of our energy
Decarbonisation focuses on replacing carbon‑heavy systems with cleaner alternatives. This includes:
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Switching from gas boilers to heat pumps
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Connecting sites to low‑carbon heat networks
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Generating more renewable energy on‑site
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Transitioning to zero‑emission vehicles
In simple terms: Energy efficiency lowers how much energy we use. Decarbonisation lowers the emissions from the energy we use.
Everyone Has a Role to Play
Achieving Net Zero is only possible if we all work together. Small actions, such as reporting energy issues quickly, using equipment responsibly, and staying engaged with sustainability initiatives, help us make faster progress.
And if you need guidance or want to explore opportunities at your site, get in touch or talk to your Senior Estate Manager or Estate Coordinator.
