The Government of Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), announced an investment of $9.3 million ($1,226,080 in grants and $8,173,910 in loans) through the Green Municipal Fund to construct a new net-zero fire station in the City of Peterborough, Ont.

“This transformative project, set to replace the aging Fire Station 2, will incorporate renewable energy, mass timber construction and water-saving technologies, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and substantial operational-cost savings of $24,270 per year for the city,” said Ryan Turnbull, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and MP for Whitby, Ontario.

The new station will replace the existing Fire Station 2 at Carnegie Road, which is over half a century old and unable to meet the city’s needs. The new station’s energy efficient design will utilize renewable energy to achieve net-zero emissions. The building will pursue certification through the Canada Green Building Council, installing automated control systems, ground source heat pumps, solar panels on the rooftop and a heat-recovery system.

“The new Fire Station 2 will be the City’s first building that is designed, built, and certified as a Zero Carbon Building for both performance and design categories. This key investment in the City of Peterborough Fire Services will enhance community safety by reducing emergency response times, while also protecting our environment by producing zero emissions. Thank you to the federal government for investing in sustainable community infrastructure in Peterborough,” said Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal.

The building will also be constructed from mass timber instead of concrete, steel or aluminum to achieve a lower carbon footprint. It will also include water saving features and be resituated to reduce flood risk and meet operational standards. The green design is expected to save the city an estimated $24,270 per year in operational costs.

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“Municipalities influence half of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions with public buildings as large contributors. That’s why it is so important that they lead on and participate in local initiatives to lower greenhouse gas emissions. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund is there alongside the federal government to help local communities as they strive for greater sustainability. Today’s announcement of support for the City of Peterborough and its fire station initiative is further proof of that. Together, we are moving towards a more sustainable future,” said Scott Pearce, FCM president.

Featured image: (Natural Resources Canada)

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