Abstract

The campus masterplan considers embodied carbon emissions, rainwater management, and the architectural needs to create a healing environment. Sustainable mobility with a reduction of car usage by personnel from 65 per cent to 47 per cent is also integral.

The main challenge to achieve net-zero operational carbon emissions by 2050 is decarbonising the heating supply. Therefore, the masterplan contains a route map, considering different heating supply options for 2050 and the transition phases. The chosen path will depend on factors such as evolutions in energy prices and technology maturity. Thanks to its low-temperature regime, the heating systems can easily adapt to any renewable heating supply. 

Cooling production will be centralised in a cooling plant, maximising the potential for energy exchange between heating and cooling. Instantaneous energy exchange will be performed by heat pumps connecting heating and cooling. Based on building energy simulation, approximately 30 per cent of heating demand and 40 per cent of cooling demand will be covered by this exchange. Different thermal energy storage systems are considered for enabling more energy exchange. Rainwater and fire suppression reservoirs play a key role as an energy storage reservoir.

Photovoltaics can play a role for on-site electricity generation but carbon-neutral energy contracts are key towards net-zero carbon electricity consumption. Considering embodied carbon emissions, a life-cycle assessment was carried out to verify which load-bearing structure has a lower environmental impact. After analysis, it was concluded that a concrete structure is a better choice compared with a steel structure. Another challenge is the long lifespan of hospitals and therefore the need for a high degree of flexibility in the building.

This is solved by implementing simple yet important design solutions: implementing generic design, flat concrete slab structure on a regular square column grid, combined technical shafts and vertical circulation, and grouping of technical rooms.

Besides all the technical challenges, the aim must also be to create a healing environment for patients, visitors and staff.