New Multifunctional, Net Zero Energy Library in Varennes
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Capital Project
Sector
Energy
Project value$8,608,900
Project Type
Capital Project
Sub Sector
Building – New – with Renewable energy
Grant amount$599,192
Program type
GMF
Municipality
Ville de Varennes, QC
Loan amount$5,991,928
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
21,198
Project timeline
2013 - 2015
Project number
12112
Description
The funding includes a subsidy ($204,494) for a feasibility study completed in 2012, an additional subsidy ($599,192) and a loan ($5,991, 928) for the construction project’s energy-efficiency component. The new library replaced the former library building, which no longer met current standards. The new building, the first “net-zero” municipal library in Canada, will generate as much energy as it consumes on an annual basis. Net-zero buildings rely on a number of technologies to minimize power consumption, while generating energy from the outset. Built on the site of the former library, the new building was designed to minimize its environmental footprint before, during and after its construction, and features a geothermal energy system, a heat recovery system, solar panels, an orientation that optimizes use of passive solar energy, and a computer-assisted energy management system. The new library is expected to consume an estimated 63 per cent less energy than one built according to the 1997 Model National Energy Code for Buildings. In fact, once solar power production is taken into account, the building’s total overall comparative energy savings will jump to 78 per cent. (As per February 10, 2016 announcement)
Project results
- 1 tonnes of GHG emissions avoided
- 2159 GJ of energy savings per year
- 127 cubic metres of water saved per year
Environmental outcomes
- Reduced energy use
- Renewable energy generation
- Reduced or avoided GHG emissions
- Reduced water consumption
- Promotion of eco-friendly transportation
- Minimal environmental impact
- Improved indoor air quality
- Reduced light pollution
Social outcomes
- Protection/improvement of public human health
- Increased public safety and security
- Increased staff health and safety
- Improved service delivery and/or level or service
- Improved availability and accessibility of information
- Greater civic pride and ownership
- Heritage conservation
- Improved public space
- Community revitalization
- Development of local programs
Economic outcomes
- Reduced maintenance costs
- New or improved revenue streams
- Innovative financing
- Increased tourism
- Local spending/consumption
- Partnership development
Lessons learned
- Initiative support
- Stakeholder and community engagement
- Council support/buy-in
- Communication & coordination
- Resources
- External factors
Applicant
Ville de Varennes, QC