A New Approach to the Improvement of Energy Efficiency in Radiology Practices

Abstract

Purpose We examined ways to improve energy efficiency in radiology by using regenerative and energy-friendly technology in the construction and operation of two radiological facilities.

Method In the years 2009 to 2010 an energy-optimized medical center with different clinical disciplines and a radiology practice was built. We used regenerative energy production (photovoltaic system, 29.92 kWp). A heat exchanger was also used to regain thermal energy to support heating of the building, thereby reducing cooling energy consumption. The practice operates a 1.5 T MRI machine and a computed tomography scanner. Derived from our experiences, an open MRI practice was built nearby in 2019. The building was constructed using an energy-saving technique. A photovoltaic system with a 10 kWh lithium-ion battery was installed. The practice operates a 0.35 T open MRI machine.

Results Energy optimization of the medical center resulted in an annual CO₂ reduction of about 54 % from 153 146 to 70 631 kg/year. Energy costs were reduced by 32.5 %. The heat exchanger proved to be highly efficient. For the open MRI practice, energy consumption in 2020 was 38 810 kWh: 14 800 kWh for the heating/cooling of the building, and 24 010 kWh for the imaging systems and IT. Net energy production of the solar array was 30 846 kWh. Net energy consumption for the whole project was 8397 kWh/year. CO₂ production of the practice was 1839 kg CO₂/year.

Conclusion Regenerative energy, energy recuperation, and use of energy-efficient imaging systems can yield considerable improvement of the CO₂ footprint in radiology practices.

Key points: 

• Radiology, in particular MRI, has high energy consumption.

• A heat exchanger can regain thermal energy from MRI machines to support room heating.

• Low-field MRI with permanent magnets consumes far less energy.

• Energy optimization results in less CO₂ production and lower operation costs.

Citation Format

• Klein HM. A New Approach to the Improvement of Energy Efficiency in Radiology Practices. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 416 – 425

Key words

occupational/environmental hazards - CT - physics - MR imaging

Publication History

Received: 05 April 2022

Accepted: 30 December 2022

Article published online:
16 March 2023

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