JDA Place Roof Replacement and REALice Installation – Town of Whitecourt

Overview

Through the Community Energy Conservation (CEC) program, the Town of Whitecourt has received a $192,140.00 rebate to help offset the $384,280.00 cost of a roof replacement and the installation of a new REALice system at JDA Place. The new heavily insulated roof and REALice system will reduce the Town’s annual electricity and natural gas consumption by 42,310 kWh and 1510 GJ respectively.

Approach

Several years ago, the Town completed an energy audit, which identified replacing the roof of the McLeod Arena at JDA place as excellent way to reduce heat loss and energy consumption and therefore heating costs. The Town approached the MCCAC for funding to support this project due to the high capital cost. Realizing this was a prime opportunity to maximize their savings, they decided to install a REALice System to further reduce energy consumption and cut costs.

Results

The newly upgraded roof and REALice system will save the Town approximately $20,000 dollars per year. The new roof has a significantly higher R-value which means there will be less conductive heat loss in the McLeod Arena. Less heat loss means that the arena heating systems don’t have to operate as much, which will save the Town money and reduce GHG emissions.

Additionally, the REALice system eliminates the need for hot water when building and resurfacing the ice. Again, this will reduce the amount of natural gas the Town uses, which lowers costs and reduces GHG emissions.

The Town can expect to reduce their annual GHG emissions by around 97.6 tCO₂ per year, and 1,118 tCO₂ over the lifespan of the roof and REALice system. This project results in a 11% GHG reduction facility wide compared to prior. This is a great investment by the Town of Whitecourt to save money, enhance visitor experience at JDA Place, and promote sustainability.

“The facility enhancements will greatly impact recreational users and visitors to our community, while at the same time making an impact on our environment.”

Tom Pickard, Mayor

“We know how important arenas are to our communities, and how much energy they can use. Upgrades can carry a high price tag, which is why we’re pleased to help fund this project. The new arena roof and other upgrades will help lower utility costs for Whitecourt while supporting more fun at the rink.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas