Bernhard and Hackensack Meridian Health Forge a Transformative 30-Year Energy Partnership

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Bernhard, one of America’s largest privately-owned infrastructure firms, announced a groundbreaking 30-year Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH), a leading healthcare institution in New Jersey.

Hackensack Meridian Health, a healthcare powerhouse operating 18 hospitals across eight counties, with nearly 4,000 licensed beds and a workforce of approximately 35,000 employees and 6,500 physicians, is set to own the largest solar and battery energy storage system of any not-for-profit healthcare provider in the U.S., thanks to this pioneering collaboration. Nearly 98 percent of the project scope is solar and battery storage, including 50,000 solar panels manufactured in the USA.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in sustainable healthcare practices and underscores Hackensack Meridian Health’s unwavering commitment to energy resilience and environmental sustainability,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health

The agreement encompasses $134 million in infrastructure improvements, a 10 percent reduction in carbon emissions, a 25 percent decrease in purchased electricity, and 33 percent guaranteed energy savings. This project solidifies Hackensack Meridian Health‘s dedication to remaining the largest, most comprehensive, and truly integrated healthcare network in New Jersey, offering innovative research, life-enhancing care, and a complete range of medical services.

“Bernhard is proud to embark on this transformative journey with Hackensack Meridian Health, utilizing our expertise to deliver a turnkey Energy-as-a-Service solution that will not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability,” stated Bernhard Chief Executive Officer Ed Tinsley.

Bernhard, with more than 100 years of energy and infrastructure project experience, stands as the largest turnkey Energy-as-a-Service solutions provider in North America. The company combines development, financing, design, construction, and operations to offer comprehensive solutions that reduce energy use, risk, and cost for clients across various sectors, including healthcare, higher education, commercial, and specialty markets.

“This partnership puts Hackensack Meridian Health on course to meet critical sustainability and energy resilience goals – complementing the State’s initiatives to invest in renewable energy and reduce our carbon footprint,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “I commend both Hackensack Meridian Health and Bernhard for embarking on this important partnership to bolster the energy infrastructure of New Jersey’s healthcare industry, ensuring hospitals are prepared to continue delivering quality care.”

Hackensack Meridian Health is already a leader in sustainability. Four of its hospitals were the first in the country to earn the Joint Commission’s Sustainable Healthcare Certification earlier this year. Hackensack University Medical Center, Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, and Ocean University Medical Center met rigorous standards of performance to establish structure, rigor, and accountability to accelerate healthcare’s growing sustainability effort. The Joint Commission’s SHC provides a framework to help healthcare organizations begin, continue, or expand their decarbonization efforts. It builds on the momentum of healthcare organizations like Hackensack Meridian Health to lead the way in sustainability excellence by inspiring and guiding others who desire to prioritize greener practices.

The partnership between Bernhard and HMH is not only a testament to sustainable innovation but also a significant driver of economic growth. This collaboration sets the stage for a transformative impact on both the healthcare sector and the local workforce. Creating jobs is a cornerstone of this initiative, primarily through the engagement of construction and trades crews responsible for implementing energy-efficient solutions.

The workforce involved in executing these improvements becomes an integral part of fostering a greener and more sustainable future.

This partnership between Bernhard and Hackensack Meridian Health signifies a commitment to sustainable practices, operational efficiency, and the advancement of healthcare infrastructure. It sets the stage for a greener and more resilient future in the healthcare sector, showcasing the potential of long-term collaborations in creating lasting positive impacts on both business operations and the environment.

Bernhard CEO Ed Tinsley Inducted into AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame

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Bernhard is proud to announce that its CEO, Ed Tinsley, has been inducted into the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Arkansas. Tinsley joins an illustrious group of industry leaders in the 2024 class of inductees, recognized for their unwavering dedication to advancing the built environment through exceptional contributions to architecture, construction, and engineering.

The AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame’s rigorous nomination process identifies individuals who exemplify the highest standards of professional excellence, personal integrity, and community engagement. Ed Tinsley’s decades-long commitment to innovation, leadership, and service has garnered him this esteemed recognition.

Tinsley’s journey in the construction industry has been marked by transformative leadership and visionary initiatives. Under Tinsley’s stewardship, Bernhard has emerged as a leading Energy-as-a-Service provider in the United States, with a $1.3-billion portfolio of partnerships across the country.

Earlier this year, Bernhard announced its CEO succession plan, where on June 11, Tinsley will step down as CEO to assume a new role. In this role, he will focus on mentoring employees and working more closely with clients to create innovative energy solutions for their unique needs. This next chapter affords him the opportunity to impart wisdom, empower future leaders, and continue driving positive change within Bernhard and the broader community.

“I’m looking forward to re-focusing my time on mentorship and sharing the knowledge I’ve gained over the years with our employees,” Tinsley said. “I am beyond excited to get back to my roots and take on a new set of challenges.”

Throughout his six-year tenure as CEO, Tinsley has not only achieved business milestones but has also cultivated a culture of inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation within Bernhard. His commitment to addressing the firm’s carbon footprint, ensuring equitable wages for employees, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment underscores his dedication to social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and bettering the quality of his employees’ lives.

Tinsley’s technical expertise and visionary leadership have earned him widespread recognition and accolades from industry peers and professional organizations. With more than four decades of experience as an energy engineering professional and a staunch advocate for clients across various sectors, Tinsley has overseen the design and management of more than 300 construction projects totaling more than $5 billion in costs.

Tinsley’s profound impact extends beyond Bernhard’s corporate success. He has actively contributed to advancing the field of energy-efficient facility design, commissioning, and operation, further cementing his legacy as a thought leader and innovator in the industry.

In addition to his induction into the AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame, Tinsley will also be honored with induction into the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Hall of Fame on April 20, 2024. These accolades serve as a testament to his enduring legacy and indelible contributions to the engineering and construction sectors.