Trust energy bill spiked by increasing fuel costs

The total energy bill across the WHSCT in 2007/8 was 4,409,092 but increased by 976,916 to 5,386,008 in 2008/9 due to escalating fuel costs. Last year the bill dipped by almost half-a-million pounds to 4,957,057.

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey outlined the energy costs in response to a query tabled by Green MLA Brian Wilson.

He remarked that the impact of increasing fuel costs can be noted in 2008/09.

Meanwhile, the Trust water bill more than doubled over the past three years from 378,091 in 2007/8 to 765,967 in 2009/10.

The figures relate to the amount charged by DRD for water and sewerage.

The Minister advised: "Since April 2008, all non-domestic customers are subject to water, sewerage and trade effluent charges where applicable. This has been phased in over a two year period with customers paying 50 per cent in 2008/09 and 100 per cent in 2009/10."

The Minister was also asked for examples of best environmental best practice across the local health service.

He said that in addition to undertaking a number of environmental improvement schemes funded through the DFP Central Energy Efficiency Fund, the Western Trust has adopted a 1degree space heating temperature reduction across Trust Buildings and is currently implementing a Water Management Contract to reduce water consumption and subsequent charges.

A waste compactor at Altnagelvin was also paid for from the DHSSPS Capital Efficiency Fund.