Amerinet, a St. Louis-based national group purchasing organization, has begun offering member facilities a program designed to help reduce energy consumption.
The Amerinet Choice Energy Solutions program provides technical expertise to help healthcare facilities increase energy efficiency and cut costs, said Mike Reid, president of the new program.
Reid said Amerinet members were the impetus behind development of the program.
“Our members told us they needed objective and customized information that would help them make informed energy decisions,” he said. “We are excited about this new program and its ability to help participants see what adjustments they can make to reach their energy goals.”
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Participants in the program can use consulting services for utility bill audits or ENERGY STAR benchmarking, as well as equipment and device procurement services and commodity acquisition services, to see how changes in these areas can impact a facility’s energy expenditures.
Reid said the Choice Energy Solutions is designed to support healthcare executives in defining strategies, policies and goals in energy management and conservation. Energy costs can comprise 3 percent or more of a healthcare facility’s total operating expense.
“Healthcare executives can be overwhelmed by complying with today’s rules, guidelines and legislation requiring reductions in energy consumption,” Reid said. “They want resources to help them increase productivity and economic competitiveness by identifying and encouraging the implementation of cost-effective energy-efficient projects.”