LAURINBURG — Scotland Health Care System has joined the Energy to Care movement by earning an Energy Star distinction.

“Everyone knows about Energy Star appliances,” said David Bales, director of engineering. “This energy savings program challenges us to not only meet the needs of our community, but also set an example for other energy users.”

Energy to Care is a national health care energy movement to put resources back into patient care. It is sponsored by the American Society for Healthcare Engineering’s Energy Efficiency Commitment, also known as E2C.

“We’re participating in E2C and taking advantage of the program’s Energy Dashboard, the practical tools and resources provided by the American Hospital Association’s Sustainability Roadmap for Hospitals, and the competition and awards programs,” said Pat Phillips, senior vice president of operations at Scotland Memorial Hospital. “We’re using the Energy to Care and E2C platform to share best practices and challenges with our peers across the nation. By taking part in the Energy to Care movement and E2C, we’re not only improving our own resource efficiency, but we’re helping others to do the same.”

The hospital tracks its energy use and looks for ways to reduce its carbon footprint. The staff and patients aide in this by turning off lights or equipment when they aren’t being used. By doing this, Scotland Memorial Hospital has reduced energy costs by 8.3 percent since 2007.

“Energy savings allows hospitals like Scotland Memorial to reinvest in our mission of serving patients and communities,” Phillips said.

For information about Energy Star scores for hospitals, visit energystar.gov/buildings/tools-and-resources/energy-star-score-hospitals-general-medical-and-surgical.