Another win for U of G research
With world-class faculty, researchers, and facilities, the University of Guelph is steadily becoming a leader in sustainable technologies in Canada. Recognition from the provincial government has come in the form of high praise and $5.8 million in funding for the University’s thermal energy project.
“The thermal energy storage facility, which looks and works like a giant battery, is the first of its kind in Ontario.”
“Congratulations to the University of Guelph for being a leader in energy innovation,” expressed Glenn Thibeault, the minister of energy, in a Ministry of Ontario news release. “Energy conservation remains one of the best ways for families, businesses and institutions to reduce their electricity costs. I’m happy to see communities like Guelph celebrating initiatives like this one that will contribute to Ontario’s green energy future.”
The thermal energy storage facility, which looks and works like a giant battery, is the first of its kind in Ontario. At night, when temperatures are cooler and energy costs are cheaper, the system chills water that is sent to the University’s central utilities plant to cool buildings during the day. When night falls, the water returns, and the cooling process begins again.
“The system holds 22 million litres of water and is currently valued at $15 million. It has only been operational since this past summer and has already lowered the University’s energy bill by around $2.5 million…”
The system holds 22 million litres of water and is currently valued at $15 million. It has only been operational since this past summer and has already lowered the University’s energy bill by around $2.5 million, according to a press release from the University of Guelph. The provincial funding will go towards construction costs.
The facility is one of many energy and water conservation projects funded by the $26.2 million Green Gryphon Initiative.
Many of the University’s energy-saving initiatives, including the thermal energy system, retrofit programs, and energy-saving lights and windows, are a result of a 2008 student referendum.
Photo by Mariah Bridgeman/The Ontarion.