Ontario Construction News staff writer
The University of Windsor has announced the installation of a new dual drive, electric-steam turbine chiller — the first of its kind at a Canadian university.
The chiller drives the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems of about 30 buildings across campus and the project is one of the largest sustainability initiatives undertaken by the university this year. It’s part of a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent in seven years and to net zero by 2050.
5″This milestone project marks our unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency,” said Gillian Heisz, University of Windsor’s vice-president, Finance and Operations. “It not only supports our sustainability objectives but also hopefully inspires others to embrace similar measures.”
Located within the Energy Conversion Centre (ECC) on Patricia Street, the York YST chiller uses energy-efficient electricity, complemented by alternative steam energy. By seamlessly combining these two energy sources, the advanced hybrid technology will reduce the equivalent of 8,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions each year by minimizing natural gas usage and saving an estimated annual operating budget of over $1 million.
The reduction in CO2 emissions is equivalent to removing 2,000 cars off the roads in a single year. The GHG emission reduction by installing this new hybrid chiller is anticipated to achieve 82 per cent of UWindsor’s 2030 GHG emission reduction target.
Representatives from Enbridge Gas were on hand to celebrate the chiller installation and present $200,000 to recognize the University’s participation in the commercial energy efficiency program. The University has received more than $438,400 from Enbridge Gas since 2018 for reducing reliance on natural gas through energy-efficient equipment upgrades, installation of demand-control ventilation systems, and more.
“This fall, we are thrilled to unveil our Campus Carbon Neutral Master Plan, a comprehensive roadmap that outlines our bold strategy to further reduce emissions and create a more sustainable campus for generations to come,” said Nadia Harduar, the university’s sustainability officer. “This plan works to address one of the priorities outlined in the university’s overall strategic plan released in the summer.”
“As a community of change-makers, the University is prepared to take bold steps to shape a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future,” she said.