Solar investment powers specialist children’s transport service towards a greener future

Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust is marking Earth Day with a practical step towards a more sustainable future, with a new solar energy system now powering its Embrace transport base in Barnsley. 

Funded through the NHS Decarbonisation Fund, the solar photovoltaic (PV) installation has been completed at the Embrace Unit at Capitol Court. The project supports the NHS ambition to reach Net Zero carbon emissions, while also reducing energy costs and strengthening a critical frontline service. 

Embrace is the Trust’s highly specialised, round-the-clock transport service for critically ill babies and children across Yorkshire and the Humber. The team carries out urgent transfers between hospitals across the region and beyond, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Because the Embrace unit runs entirely on electricity, the impact of generating power on site is significant. 

The new system is expected to produce around 91,000 kWh of electricity each year, reducing reliance on the national grid and helping to protect the service from rising energy costs. It also improves resilience for a service that families depend on at some of the most difficult moments. 

Powering services to run around the clock

Peter Knowles, Director of Estates, said: 

“This is a really positive step for the Trust and for Embrace. 

“We know that services like Embrace need to run around the clock, and that comes with a significant energy demand. By generating our own electricity on site, we’re reducing our reliance on the grid, lowering costs, and making the service more resilient. 

Just as importantly, it helps us play our part in reducing carbon emissions. It’s a practical investment that supports both our environmental responsibilities and the long-term sustainability of our services.” 

A big step forward for healthier futures

Jo Whiston, Lead Nurse, Embrace, said: 

“The Embrace team is really committed to developing a more sustainable service, and we’ve already been exploring a number of initiatives. 

“The solar installation is a big step forward for us. During daylight hours, the unit can now run on the energy we generate ourselves, which is a great position to be in for a 24/7 service. 

“We’re also working closely with the Estates team on what comes next, including battery storage and the move towards electric vehicles and charging.” 

As well as reducing carbon emissions, the installation makes effective use of existing estate without disrupting services and has an expected lifespan of 25 to 30 years. 

Looking ahead, the system also creates new opportunities, including supporting the transition to electric vehicles such as ambulance fleets, with the potential for on-site charging powered by renewable energy. 

This investment reflects Sheffield Children’s commitment to delivering high-quality care over the past 150 years, while reducing its environmental impact, creating healthier futures for every child, everywhere.