A new energy centre will be built at Victoria General Hospital (VGH) to help keep up with growing demand, according to Island Health.
The health authority says it’s building the new energy centre to help meet the projected population growth of the region over the next 25 years, and because the current energy system at VGH is already near capacity.
The new energy centre will incorporate modern design standards to help withstand disruptions like power outages, earthquakes or flooding, according to Island Health.
“It’s critical that the infrastructure people rely on is built to last,” said Darlene Rotchford, MLA for Esquimalt-Colwood. “The new energy centre will ensure the hospital can continue to deliver safe, reliable care as the region continues to grow.”
Construction of the new energy centre will begin this summer, and is expected to wrap up in 2029, though locals may notice some signs of construction earlier than that.
Starting this month, tree cutting around the hospital will begin before spring bird nesting season arrives.
Island Health says it worked with arborists to identify which trees needed to be removed and which could safely stay.
Construction is being funded by both the B.C. government and the Capital Regional Hospital District, with the province providing $52.9 million and the CRHD contributing $22.7 million.
“This investment strengthens the hospital’s ability to meet the current and future needs of our communities,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health board chair.
“Patients rely on VGH every day. Ensuring we have reliable energy infrastructure means we can continue providing uninterrupted care and be ready for future demands,” she said.
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