The Government of Nova Scotia is investing more than $4.6 million in an energy system to supply heating, cooling and hot water for the new Cogswell District redevelopment area in downtown Halifax. The system, the first in eastern Canada, will supply renewable energy generated by Halifax Water’s nearby wastewater effluent treatment facility to six mixed-use buildings.
“This is a prime example of how innovative technologies can help communities meet their energy needs in more efficient and environmentally friendly ways,” said Labi Kousoulis, minister of inclusive economic growth. “It is the first system of its kind in eastern Canada and will help Nova Scotia achieve its bold climate change targets.”
Construction of the system is expected to start this fall. Renewable thermal energy will be transferred from the treatment of wastewater effluent to efficiently heat and cool buildings in the area.
Halifax Water will own and operate the system, which will include distribution piping, energy transfer stations, and interconnections to the recipient buildings. It is expected to meet more than 22 megawatts of peak energy demand annually.
“We are excited to be partnering with all three levels of government in the funding of this sustainable new development,” said Cathie O’Toole, general manager of Halifax Water. “By harnessing the energy resources of our existing wastewater infrastructure, it allows the Cogswell District energy system to become an innovative and sustainable cornerstone of the area’s redevelopment. Once Halifax Regional Council approves a construction tender for the Cogswell District redevelopment, Halifax Water will move forward and seek final approvals to proceed with this project.”
The federal government is investing more than $5.5 million in the project and Halifax Water is contributing over $3.7 million. The total cost of the project is almost $14 million.
“Today’s funding announcement is an exciting step forward for the Cogswell District project,” said Jacques Dubé, chief administrative officer of the Halifax Regional Municipality. “The district energy system aligns with our commitment to our long-term climate change plan to reduce emissions and harness sustainable energy in our communities. It will create many energy efficiencies for the new Cogswell District and will help us build for the future.”
