City reduces environmental footprint by generating solar power at City Hall
By City of Castlegar
The City of Castlegar is now generating electricity using solar panels on the rooftop of City Hall.
The new panels, which are visible when travelling along Columbia Avenue, generate 28 kW of electricity, save the City an estimated $2,600 a year, and reduce emissions. This project supports Castlegar’s Official Community Plan which includes improving energy efficiency at municipal facilities and a movement toward self-reliant community energy needs and renewable energy generation.
This $100,000 project was made possible through the Columbia Basin Trust’s Energy Sustainability Grants and BC Solar Now’s contribution and mandate to engage British Columbians in a global shift to renewable energy by allowing people to experience solar power first hand.
“Our Council is so happy these panels are installed and operational,” says Mayor Bruno Tassone. “We are excited to be demonstrating innovation and sustainable solutions that reduce our carbon footprint and save money.”
Learn more about how the panels are working by visiting the City’s website.
The City has also successfully completed the following energy efficiency projects:
- Retrofitted streetlights to programmable LED lights;
- Installed variable frequency drives to reduce power consumption at the sewer treatment plant – an award-winning project;
- Implemented the recommendations from City Hall energy audit, saving power and reducing water consumption.
Further energy efficiency and generation opportunities for municipal buildings are currently being explored.
The City of Castlegar is a service centre in the West Kootenay. The diversified and growing economy is focused on the forestry, energy and mining sectors in the Valley, and commercial services in the City. Quality of life features backcountry adventure and an increasingly dynamic urban culture, including the Millennium Park & Ponds and Sculpture Walk.
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