PORT COQUITLAM, BC - Jan. 10, 2024...The City of Port Coquitlam is exploring the feasibility of a District Energy Network for the Kingsway industrial corridor to support the City's ongoing Climate Action efforts and foster economic development by creating a green industrial intensification opportunity.
District energy projects help to decarbonize connected buildings by reducing typical electricity consumption. These systems unlock the potential of energy efficiency and sustainable energy in providing a reliable source of heating and cooling.
"Tackling climate change requires taking real action, including making our buildings more energy efficient. By investing in cleaner and more efficient ways to deliver energy we are reducing pollution, meeting the city's climate goals, and saving money on operating costs," said Mayor Brad West. "A District Energy Network will allow the city, the community, and the local businesses to tap into renewable energy that is an environmentally friendly solution. We continue to make Port Coquitlam a greener city by investments in active transportation, flood protection infrastructure and improving tree canopy. Projects like this show that investing in practical, affordable clean energy solutions protects our environment, supports good jobs, and builds a stronger local economy for future generations."
The initial goal is to advance a feasibility study beginning in February 2024 to understand the extent of waste heat recovery from the McLean Avenue pump station to heat the Port Coquitlam Community Centre facility. This will be followed by a phase two bio energy centre concept development at a much larger scale once phase one has been completed successfully.
Phase One
The first phase of the Port Coquitlam's district energy network is expected to take two to three years to complete. It would involve tapping into the wastewater heat available at the McLean Avenue pump station (owned and operated by Metro Vancouver) and installing a network of underground pipes to transfer thermal energy to heat the 275,000 square- foot Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC) at 2150 Wilson Avenue that houses three arenas, a gymnasium, a leisure pool, a fitness centre and studios, Terry Fox Library, a concession and multi-purpose spaces.
The system will provide alternative ways to heat the building/pool and recover waste heat from the ice rink chillers, thus significantly reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from PCCC.
"We are committed to improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the City," said Cllr. Nancy McCurrach, council designate for environment and arts, culture and heritage. "We continue to take steps in looking for ways for a greener community."
Phase Two
The long-term vision is to build a new bio-energy centre to provide green energy to over a dozen large industrial users currently situated along the Kingsway Avenue industrial corridor. The energy centre would use residual biogenic waste generated within the region.
The project is being coordinated with planned road improvements in the vicinity to reduce costs and minimize construction disruption.
More information about this project can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/districtenergy.
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Media Contact
Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email [email protected]