Heliopolis University Collaborates with Sekem Medical
Center and Eco Energy Company for Energy-Efficient
Renovation
Location: Sekem Medical Center, Egypt
In a groundbreaking initiative, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development has partnered
with Sekem Medical Center and Eco Energy Company to implement an energy-efficient
renovation project. This collaboration aims to enhance the hospital’s sustainability and align its
operations with international energy efficiency standards.
Sekem Medical Center has established a clear policy to ensure that all new buildings and
renovation projects meet rigorous energy efficiency and sustainability criteria. The center’s
design incorporates a state-of-the-art Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) system utilizing Linear
Fresnel Reflector (LFR) technology, which provides both electrical and thermal energy essential
for hospital operations.
Key features of the renovation include:
• CSP Plant: The solar field boasts an aperture area of 296 m2 with a peak thermal power
output of 120 kW. The system circulates a heat transfer fluid that reaches outlet
temperatures of approximately 160 °C, driving an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) unit to
produce 4–8 kW of electrical output while generating an additional 83–95 kW of thermal
energy.
• Cooling System: The thermal output is used to power an absorption chiller with a 35 kW
cooling capacity, providing efficient air conditioning for the hospital without relying on
conventional electrically driven compressors.
• Rooftop PV Array: A 5-kW photovoltaic array coupled with a 28-kWh battery storage
system enhances the facility’s energy resilience, supporting electrical loads during the
night and reducing reliance on external energy sources.
• LED Lighting: All facility lighting is equipped with high-efficiency LED technology,
significantly lowering electricity consumption and contributing to the overall energy
efficiency of the building.
The project adheres to several applicable standards and frameworks, including ASHRAE 90.1
and 170, ISO 50001, the Egyptian Energy Efficiency Building Code (EEBC), and the LEED for
Healthcare v4.1 sustainability framework, ensuring optimal energy use and indoor environmental
quality.
Through this innovative collaboration, Sekem Medical Center, in partnership with Heliopolis
University and Eco Energy Company, is setting a benchmark for energy-efficient, renewable-
based hospital operations, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable healthcare practices.
