City of Airdrie – Ron Ebbesen Arena Lighting Retrofit 

Overview 

As part of the Action Centre’s Recreation Energy Conservation Program, the City of Airdrie completed an LED lighting retrofit throughout the Ron Ebbesen Arena. The 67,583 square foot arena includes a two ice surfaces, eight dressing rooms, two referee rooms, a second-floor lounge, and a large lobby. This project was a continuation of other energy efficiency projects at the arena including an ice plant upgrade, new pumps, LED lighting over the ice surface, and more. The project was completed in December 2021. 

Approach 

The arena lighting retrofit project included the replacement of 335 T8, compact fluorescents, and high-pressure sodium fixtures with 333 new LED troffers, high bays, and wall packs. The LED lamps will provide higher lumen levels at a much lower wattage, thereby reducing the electricity consumption of lighting equipment under the system boundary. 

Results 

The lighting retrofit resulted in a reduction of 44 tCO₂/year and an annual energy cost savings of $8,150.70. The project is estimated to have reduced emissions from the existing system by 52% and a 5% reduction facility-wide from the baseline. 

The support we received from the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre’s REC program to upgrade the lighting in the Ron Ebbesen Arena will make a significant difference for our arena patrons. This investment will greatly enhance the user experience by improving visibility and safety. We are extremely pleased to have received this funding to complete the project.

Mayor Peter Brown 

Monthly utilities are among the largest costs of operating Genesis Place and the City of Airdrie arenas. Administration has strived in recent years, to invest in projects that both lower our operational costs while enhancing the experience of our residents and sport users. The recent LED lighting upgrades at Genesis Place and the Ron Ebbesen Arena have allowed us to significantly upgrade our lighting levels, which improves the safety and visibility of our active living amenities while greatly reducing utility and maintenance costs. The REC program through MCCAC made these projects possible by reducing the capital investment required from Airdrie’s tax base.

Brad Anderson, Manager of Genesis Place and Arenas