Powering Up for A Greener Future
Three solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations were delivered to the campus on June 28. VACCHCS is also working to implement a composting program by the beginning of 2024 to comply with new state regulations.
In a bid to embrace sustainability, VA Central California Health Care System (VACCHCS) is paving the way toward a greener future. Three solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations were delivered to the campus on June 28. VACCHCS is also working to implement a composting program by the beginning of 2024 to comply with new state regulations.
The massive vehicle charging units, weighing a whopping 12,000 lbs. each and standing 21 feet high, are located in the parking lot near Fresno and Harvard Streets. Taneasha Roberts, VACCHCS Energy Engineer says, “With the capacity to charge four vehicles simultaneously, they’ll be a game-changer for our eco-friendly fleet of government-issued vehicles. Initially, we are hoping to see possibly 10% in energy savings.”
At the same time, the Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) Program at VACCHCS is working to implement a composting program to comply with new California laws. GEMS is collaborating on the initiative with Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) 21, which manages and oversees VACCHCS.
The VISN 21 GEMS Manager Daniel Wood said, “The department 's most affected by this program will be Food and Nutrition Service, Environmental Management Service, and Canteen Service as they will need to divert food waste from the solid waste stream. To avoid fines, the program needs to be established by January 2024.”
By complying with these regulations and adopting sustainable practices, VACCHCS aims to help create a healthier environment for our Veterans and our community.
