Next Generation in Energy Efficiency at the Queens Place Recreation Center

Type of initiative FCM Green Municipal Fund - Capital Project
Sector Energy
Project value$20,631,000
Project Type Capital Project
Sub Sector Heat Recovery
Grant amount$365,266
Program type GMF
Municipality Region of Queens Municipality, NS
Loan amount$1,826,333
Status Fully Disbursed
Population 10,422
Project timeline 2009 - 2012
Project number 11023

Description

The Region of Queens Municipality will integrate a heat recovery system into a new multi-purpose recreational center to improve the facility’s energy efficiency and to supply energy to a future district heating system. The recreational center is a key component of the municipality’s Integrated Community Sustainability Plan, and will reinforce the Region's environmental stewardship role with both its citizens and other municipalities.
The municipality will recover the equivalent of 1,256 MWh of waste heat from the ammonia refrigeration system in the facility’s arena at a temperature of approximately 38°C (100°F). Of this amount, the equivalent of 495 MWh of this heat will be redistributed to the facility through a specialized HVAC system, including in-floor heating and ventilation coils designed to use low-grade heat, reducing the building’s energy consumption by 42% compared to a conventional design. The remaining 60% of the waste heat will be circulated through a future district heating loop to be built in the surrounding 20 acres of developable, commercially zoned land, which already houses a new 65-room hotel.
The recreational center is expected to attract further economic growth to the region, while ensuring that residents of all ages and ability levels have the opportunity to engage in physical activity year-round.
(Project description from original funding application)

Project results

  • 0 tonnes of GHG emissions avoided
  • 0 GJ of energy savings per year

Environmental outcomes

  • Renewable energy generation

Social outcomes

  • Increased opportunities for physical activity
  • Increased opportunities for recreational activities
  • Greater civic pride and ownership
  • Promotion of a sustainable lifestyle

Economic outcomes

  • Reduced maintenance costs
  • Innovative financing
  • Increased tourism
  • Use of feasibility tools

Lessons learned

  • Stakeholder and community engagement
  • Council support/buy-in
  • Communication & coordination
  • Data and reporting
  • Resources
  • External factors
  • Technical – Project specific

Applicant

Region of Queens Municipality, NS