When it comes to community healthcare, the ability to provide uninterrupted care is of utmost importance. In Wilmington, North Carolina, two clinics within the Goshen Medical Center network have taken a significant step forward with the installation of newly added solar and battery backup systems. These systems are now enabling these clinics to serve thousands of residents, regardless of the circumstances.

"Uninterrupted Care: Solar and Battery Systems in Community Healthcare"

Strengthening Local Healthcare Resilience in Clinton

The Fairview Clinic in Clinton, which serves over 5,000 patients annually, has been equipped with a full building backup power system through the new solar and battery installation. On its best days, this system offsets more than half of the clinic's energy usage, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking 54,000 miles of vehicle traffic off the road. This is a remarkable achievement in a community that often faces challenges due to frequent power outages caused by hurricanes and severe weather. The installation of these systems ensures that the clinic can continue to provide essential care even during emergencies.During Hurricane Helene in October 2024, when the area lost power for two hours, the Fairview Clinic seamlessly transitioned to backup power. This seamless transition demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness of the solar and battery system, ensuring that no interruptions in care occurred. The clinic's ability to maintain operations during such challenging times is a testament to the importance of investing in resilient power systems.

Strengthening Local Healthcare Resilience in Tabor City

The Tabor City Clinic, which serves nearly 3,000 patients annually, also benefits from a similar solar and battery backup system. This system provides critical backup power and offsets 61% of the clinic's energy usage. During Hurricane Helene, when the area lost power, the clinic was able to continue providing care without any interruptions. This is a significant achievement for a community that relies on healthcare services and is vulnerable to power outages.The installation of these systems not only provides backup power but also contributes to a more sustainable future. Both systems are fully green, requiring no diesel generators, and reduce carbon emissions equivalent to the impact of planting 26 acres of forest. This is an important step towards reducing the environmental impact of healthcare facilities and building a more sustainable future.

Supporting Those Who Need It Most

As part of North Carolina's largest community health center network, Goshen Medical Center prioritizes care for rural, low-income, and underserved populations. The new solar and battery systems provide peace of mind for these communities and their healthcare providers. They ensure that people in Clinton, Tabor City, and beyond can access the care they need, even during the most challenging circumstances.These systems are a vital investment in the community, allowing Goshen Medical Center to continue providing care to those who rely on them most. The organization's longstanding partnership with Goshen Medical Center, dating back to 2016, has provided over $1.2 million in support. This support has helped the health center network deliver care to more than 52,000 patients annually.

Building a Sustainable Future for Community Health

In addition to bolstering resilience, the solar and battery installations contribute to a more sustainable future. The energy cost savings, estimated at $3,500 annually for the Fairview Clinic and $3,800 for the Tabor City Clinic, can be redirected towards patient care. This allows the clinics to provide more services and improve the overall quality of care.The installations were developed in partnership with American Microgrid Solutions, with Eagle Solar & Light handling procurement and construction. Both clinics have also applied for rebates from Duke Energy, with the Tabor City Clinic already receiving $13,500. These partnerships and rebates help to make the installations more affordable and sustainable in the long run.In conclusion, the installation of solar and battery backup systems at Goshen Medical Center's clinics in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a significant step forward in community healthcare. These systems provide uninterrupted care, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future. They are a testament to the importance of investing in community resilience and ensuring that healthcare access is available to all, regardless of the challenges they may face.