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The Earl Nichols Recreation Centre will have new energy efficient upgrades after a combined investment of over $3.5 million from the federal government and the City of London.
Announced by Parliamentary Secretary Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament Arielle Kayabaga, and Mayor Josh Morgan, this project will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the facility while lowering energy costs for the municipality.
These enhancements are expected to reduce the facility’s energy consumption by an estimated 42 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 246 tonnes annually.
“For almost 40 years, Earl Nichols Arena has been a community hub and a central venue for sports enthusiasts of all ages. Our government’s investment will ensure that Londoners can continue to enjoy public skates and hockey tournaments for years to come, all while contributing to our federal climate change mitigation goals,” said Fragiskatos, MP for London North Centre.
The Earl Nichols Recreation Centre operates three ice rinks and provides the community with affordable and inclusive spaces to play sports and to come together. This project will install a new refrigeration plant – complete with heat pump and thermal battery storage to maximize energy savings while efficiently heating and cooling the facility, which eliminates the need to use natural gas.
“The Earl Nichols Arena is a cherished facility for our community. By improving this facility, we are helping to significantly offset its environmental impact, ensuring that it remains a great place to practice, grow, play and learn for generations to come,” said Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West.
The federal government is investing $2,355,144 in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB) and the City of London is contributing $1,196,206.
“The Earl Nichols Recreation Centre has long been a cornerstone of our community, with more than 240,000 visitors per year coming together to learn, stay active and build lasting memories. This investment in thermal battery technology and energy-efficient upgrades ensures that this community hub remains sustainable for future generations, contributing to our climate resiliency work as we continue our path towards net-zero emissions. By embracing innovative solutions like this, we are paving the way to a greener city for all,” said Josh Morgan, Mayor of the City of London. |
