Province gives $3.6M to Dufferin-Caledon for hospital retrofit

The Facilities Team at Headwaters Health Care Centre who will work with Blackstone Energy Services on improving the hospital’s Plant and Building Automation System.

The province is giving a $3.6 million shot in the arm to Headwaters Health Care Centre (HHCC).

While essential infrastructure upgrades might not sound sexy, staff at the 27-year-old facility that requires extensive repairs and renovations understand that to stay current in health care, a strong foundation is required.

The provincial boost of $3.615 million is just what the doctor ordered.

"Investing in these infrastructure upgrades is crucial for the future of Headwaters Health Care Centre," said Cathy van Leipsig, vice president of corporate services and CFO of Headwaters Health Care Centre. "By modernizing our systems, we'll not only improve operational efficiency but also significantly reduce our energy consumption and operational costs. These upgrades will ensure a more sustainable and reliable facility, reinforcing our commitment to providing the highest standard of care to our community and to protecting our environment."

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As part of the provincial government's Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF) Program, the funding will partially support HHCC's multi-year plant and building automation system upgrade, supporting the hospital's energy conservation management plan goals.

The work includes:

• Replacing end-of-life equipment
• Installation of a heat recovery chiller
• Upgrade of the Building Automation System
• Installation of a steam boiler to support food services and medical device reprocessing
• Implementing efficient water fixtures, LED retrofits

Blackstone Energy Services has been selected as the development partner for this project.

Upon completion of the project, the hospital will expect to see significant reductions in electricity, natural gas, and water consumption, as well as overall lower energy costs and a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. These upgrades will also support the hospital in achieving its energy conservation and demand management targets by 2029.

Headwaters Health Care Centre is one of Dufferin-Caledon's largest employers, with over 800 staff, 200 physicians and six midwives. It also benefits from more than 200 volunteers.

The funding received through the HIRF program will ensure the hospital's physical infrastructure is upgraded and contribute to the overall economic prosperity of the region in a sustainable manner.