Green healthcare design's big price tag largely a myth

Study shows cost increase of 1-2 percent for LEED certified projects

By Healthcare Facilities Today


Despite much data and an increasing number of completed projects that have earned LEED certification, concern over high costs persist, according to an article posted on the Healthcare Design web site. 

When the study “Demystifying First Cost Green Building Premiums in Healthcare” was released five years ago, it showed the capital cost premium for green healthcare design was 2.4 percent. Yet concern over cost premiums persist. An updated study, using a new set of hospital projects, reports that for the 13 sample hospitals greater than 100,000 square feet, the average capital cost green premium was less than 1 percent, while the smaller hospitals reported an average capital cost green premium of 2.1 percent.

“For healthcare, green is still relatively new,” said Gail Vittori, co-director, Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems. “Even with the evidence-based data we’re providing, people hold onto this concern. It’s kind of the risk-averse nature of healthcare, perhaps.”

Read the article.

 



September 5, 2013


Topic Area: Energy Efficiency


Recent Posts

The Hidden Risks of QAC Disinfectants in Healthcare Facilities

Quaternary ammonium compounds are a popular disinfectant choice, but they may be causing more harm than good. A review outlines the problems with QACs and offers a solution.


Sprinkler Compliance: Navigating Code Mandates, Renovation Triggers and Patient Safety

As CMS deadlines approach and renovation projects accelerate, healthcare facility managers must understand how NFPA 101, state fire codes and sprinkler design strategies intersect.


Baptist Health Acquires South Arkansas Regional Hospital

Now operating as Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado, the 151-bed facility is the 13th hospital in the Baptist Health system.


Wider View: Planning LED Upgrades Across a Healthcare Portfolio

Upgrade planning has to start with a systemwide, portfolio approach rather than a site-by-site mindset.


Cone Health Plans Hospital in Forsyth County of North Carolina

The 198,593 square-foot facility will be in southeast Forsyth County.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.