Geothermal Energy Systems at Toronto Zoo
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Energy
Project value$104,700
Project Type
Feasibility Study
Sub Sector
Heat Recovery
Grant amount$36,300
Program type
GMF
Municipality
City of Toronto, ON
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
2,794,356
Project timeline
2009 - 2011
Project number
10117
Description
The Toronto Zoo planned to study the feasibility of using geothermal energy systems for space heating and cooling in two major buildings it was constructing in 2009 and 2011: the Canadian Wilderness Orientation Centre and the Centre for Sustainable Life and Learning. The project team conducted detailed research and literature reviews of existing geothermal technologies and companies. At the building sites, the team drilled thermal bore holes to test the ground profile and the heat conductivity of the soil. They did detailed life-cycle and cost-benefit analyses of various geothermal technology options to evaluate their technical, environmental, economic and social impacts. Based on the study results, the team planned to create recommendations and an implementation strategy. If the feasibility study were successful, the Zoo expected to use geothermal energy sources in the two new buildings, with an expected decrease in the use of non-renewable energy by 40 to 70 per cent. Results of this study would also facilitate geothermal use in other Zoo and City of Toronto facilities, to help the city meet its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of six per cent below 1990 levels by 2012. The city estimated that it would save $80,850 per year after it recovered upfront capital costs.
Applicant
The Board of Management of Toronto Zoo, ON