Lethbridge Softball Complex Reduces Energy Use and Pollution

A major upgrade of its Softball Valley recreation complex is helping the City of Lethbridge save considerable energy and water, plus reduce pollution.

Aided by a $190,000, interest-free loan from ME first!, the complex has installed state-of-the art light fixtures that significantly improve sports field lighting, while using 25 per cent less energy than the existing, 35-year-old lights. Indeed, the upgrade provides lighting for new fields and facilities for about the same operating cost as the old, smaller complex. As well, the flat-lens fixtures focus light on the fields and thus largely eliminate light pollution from the night sky.

"We needed more light and more energy-efficient lighting," says Susan Dakin, the city's environmental services manager. "We got both - a lot more light for a lot less money."

At the same time, the sports fields are being irrigated by recycled wastewater from the city's nearby sewage treatment plant. The wastewater contains additional nutrients, reducing the need for fertilizers. More importantly, the water is being transported by a new, energy-efficient pump that will cut electricity consumption by nearly 21,000 kilowatt hours per year.

The total energy savings for the Softball Valley upgrade is about 45,000 kilowatt hours per year, thus reducing annual carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions by 42 tonnes. The complex houses 10 softball fields, two beach volleyball courts, a clubhouse, a concession building and a viewing area.

"Lethbridge has done a wonderful job of improving its recreation facilities, while finding a creative way to reduce its energy bill," says Municipal Affairs Minister Rob Renner.