Banff School Gets the Grade on Energy Efficiency16/03/2004The Canadian Rockies School Division No. 12 received a $30,000 cheque today through the Alberta Plus Initiative that rewards energy-efficient building design in Alberta. Funding was provided for the recent renovation of the Banff Community High School, which incorporated several energy-efficient design principles and technologies. "It is great to see how environmental stewardship has been combined with an educational culture where forward thinking must exist on a daily basis," says Les Punshon, Facilities Manager, Canadian Rockies School Division No. 12. "This school is a great illustration of what Albertans can do to save money while protecting Alberta landscapes such as the Banff National Park." Energy Solutions Alberta, an initiative of Climate Change Central, partnered with Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan) Office of Energy Efficiency to launch Alberta Plus. The program tops up funding for Alberta projects that receive funds through NRCan's Commercial Building Incentive Program (CBIP). Up to $40,000 in funding is provided through Alberta Plus, which along with a maximum $60,000 CBIP grant equals a potential $100,000 incentive for energy-efficient building design. "The Alberta Plus Initiative aims to encourage Alberta communities to utilize eco-friendly designs and technologies. Eventually we want energy-efficient building practices to be the norm in Alberta," says Allan Amey, President and CEO of Climate Change Central. "This initiative is spurring innovation in Alberta's building industry and promoting more sustainable forms of building construction." Major features of this energy-savvy school include the installation of energy-efficient lighting, new insulation, low-emissivity windows and an energy-efficient boiler system. This renovation has placed the school at 28 per cent below the Model National Code for Buildings and is expected to save the district up to $15,000 while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 113.78 tonnes each year. The Alberta Plus Initiative expires March 31, 2004. To qualify for the program, applicants must first be approved for CBIP funding, which requires a building design at least 25 per cent more energy efficient than the Model National Energy Code for Buildings. Climate Change Central is a public-private partnership established as a catalyst for, and coordinator of, activities by individuals, businesses, institutions and governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Alberta. Energy Solutions Alberta (ESA), an initiative of Climate Change Central, was developed to provide Albertans with a one-stop source of reliable and unbiased information regarding energy efficiency opportunities. ESA is the coordinator of Alberta Plus activities. For further information, contact: Sarah Waddington Program Manager Climate Change Central (780) 408-4583 |
