Multifunctional Energy Efficient (Net Zero) Library
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Energy
Project value$974,000
Project Type
Feasibility Study
Sub Sector
Building – New – with Renewable energy
Grant amount$350,000
Program type
GMF
Municipality
Ville de Varennes, QC
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
21,198
Project timeline
2011 - 2012
Project number
11012
Description
Wanting to boost its support for sustainable development, the City of Varennes will carry out a feasibility study regarding construction of a multifunctional energy efficient (Net Zero) library to replace the existing building that no longer complies with applicable standards. This highly energy-efficient building will generate its own renewable energy, will respect sustainable development principles regarding water consumption and materials and will require little operating costs thereby setting an example for any future development and demonstrating the municipality’s environmental policies. Located close to the city centre, the library will also be very easily accessible—eighty percent of the population will be within a five minute biking distance.
The preliminary design work has contributed to reducing energy consumption by 85% as compared to the 1997 National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings through energy conservation and the use of renewable energies. The feasibility study carried out in accordance with an integrated concept process will prepare and complete preliminary design work to test technical requirements and specifications allowing for Net Zero energy efficiency. Another source of renewable energy, solar cell panels, will be added and a further reduction in energy consumption or a combination of all these options will be necessary to achieve the Net Zero objective. Different strategies to balance the reduction in energy demand with renewable energy generation and storage will be tested. Presently, no model establishes the proportions of energy conservation compared to the supply of renewable energy generation and energy storage. The evaluation of these strategies will be done through an iterative process of energy modeling and hourly rate evaluation.
The expertise of various professionals will be applied to this study, including architects, engineers, an energy audit specialist and a cost consultant. Specialists from local institutions such as CanmetÉNERGIE and Hydro-Québec will be called upon to assist the design team through providing access to current and valuable information on renewable energy, energy conservation, heating and cooling systems and sustainable buildings.
In order to ensure social accessibility and effective library management, the study will include the suggestions and recommendations of the public and library employees. Finally, environmental, economic and social benefits and indicators will be identified to ensure a well-thought-out modern operational management resulting in reduced costs.
(Project description from original funding application)
Applicant
Ville de Varennes, QC