Feasibility Study for the PERL “Green” Convention Centre/Hotel/Arena Complex in Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac

The City of Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac wants to conduct a feasibility study for a convention and sports centre and renewable energy network project that will include the renovation of the existing arena. The entire complex will be heated by a district energy system. Occupying an area of 10,405 m2, the new complex will enable Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac to offer the region more services, and will also stimulate the economy. The project design ensures energy generation and recovery, and reduces the consumption of fossil fuels and electricity in the arena by at least 30 per cent annually. At the same time, Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac wants the two new buildings to consume 60 per cent less energy than the standard outlined in the 1997 Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB). Heat recovered from the arena’s refrigeration system and geoexchange wells will supply energy for the complex’s single heating system. This approach, supported by opportunity and pre-feasibility studies, will determine the technical, environmental and financial feasibility of the project. The City of Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac will first define the functions and technical characteristics of the three buildings before developing the renewable energy network concept. A cost-benefit analysis of the various options for recovery, energy efficiency and renewable energy production (such as solar energy) will be undertaken. Finally, the total project cost will be studied. Eco-building principles will be followed to construct the two buildings in regional materials such as wood and slate. To this end, an architect hired by the City will analyze the life cycle of the ecological footprint according to the materials used (e.g. concrete, steel, etc.). Final recommendations will be made on the basis of the economic, environmental and social impacts of the various options being considered. The new complex will reduce GHG emissions by approximately 115 tonnes per year and should provide numerous economic benefits, including job creation, which will certainly strengthen and boost the local and regional economies. Another benefit will be the renewal of key sectors, such as forestry, which has been depressed in recent years. This initiative could be used as a model of green development by regions with significant natural assets or by Canadian municipalities facing the challenge of being the main city in an economically disadvantaged rural area. (As per February 10, 2016 announcement)