HSHS St. John’s Hospital became the first hospital in the Hospital Sisters Health System to achieve federal Energy Star certification, according to a March 20 announcement.
The recognition highlights efforts by the hospital to improve energy efficiency and environmental performance, which can help reduce costs and support patient care.
To qualify for the Energy Star designation, buildings must score at least 75 on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 1-100 scale. St. John’s Hospital received a score of 78 for its two million square foot campus, placing it among the top-performing hospitals nationwide for energy efficiency. According to the EPA, certified buildings use an average of 35% less energy and produce 35% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than noncertified buildings.
Brian Brennan, President and CEO of HSHS St. John’s Hospital and HSHS’ Central Illinois Market, said: “This achievement demonstrates that innovation in health care extends beyond clinical care. By operating more efficiently, we’re strengthening our ability to invest in the care, technology and services our patients depend on.”
The hospital reports annual energy cost savings exceeding $300,000 each year over the past three years—totaling nearly $1 million during that period—thanks to increased efficiency measures such as LED lighting upgrades and new monitoring technology for heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Nick Bristow, Director of Facilities Management at St. John’s Hospital said: “Hospitals operate around the clock, making this certification all the more significant. Our team is proud to deliver improvements that support sustainability while keeping every patient room, operating suite and clinical space running safely and reliably.”
The achievement reflects ongoing efforts within health care facilities to balance operational needs with environmental responsibility.
