Storing oxygen or storing energy? A cost-effectiveness model for comparing appropriate medical oxygen supply systems in low-resource health facilities with intermittent power

A model is presented for comparing the cost-effectiveness of different oxygen technology systems specifically designed for health centres with intermittent power. We compare the options of storing energy in batteries vs. storing oxygen generated when energy is available. Conceptual oxygen storage system designs are presented. The model takes into account hours of grid power per day, oxygen demand (both annual and peak simultaneous demand), equipment costs and life span, and costs of electricity and maintenance. Cost per 1000L of oxygen delivered, annual costs, and initial capital costs are calculated and compared across technology options. The model can be applied generally, but results presented here use input parameters specific to The Gambia.