City of Calgary Max Bell Centre – Boiler Upgrade

OVERVIEW

As part of the Action Centre’s Recreation Energy Conservation Program, the City of Calgary completed a replacement of a single mid-efficiency boiler with two high-efficiency boilers (each sized at 50% for redundancy) to meet the facility requirements.

The project was commissioned in December 2021.

Fun Fact!

This project was part of a $14 million upgrade to the arena facility including lobby and change room renovations, replacement of the electrical and mechanical systems, energy-efficient lighting, new safety netting, a new ice slab, and dasher boards and board glass for Ken Bracko Arena.

APPROACH

As a community hub, more than half a million people walk through the doors of Max Bell Centre each year. As part of the major renovation, the Centre received funding support to bring energy efficiency into the facility. The existing mid-efficient boiler (80% efficient) was replaced with two new higher efficiency boilers (88% efficient) that decrease the natural gas required within the facility

RESULTS

The replacement resulted in a reduction of 27 tCO₂/year and an energy cost savings of $2,515.62/year The project resulted in a 6% GHG reduction from the existing system and a 1% reduction facility-wide from the baseline.

“Investments like these go a long way to ensuring Calgarians have access to quality recreation amenities, it’s a place for the community to gather, host events and stay active.”

– Gian-Carlo Carra, Ward 9 Councillor

“Max Bell Centre is an important community asset serving diverse groups. These improvements will mean a better and more accessible experience for sports participants, cultural groups, families and community partners.””

– James McLaughlin, Acting Director of Calgary Recreation