Imagine integrated energy sources working synergistically within a small neighbourhood, just west of Chilliwack's downtown core.
It could become reality one day.
A proposed Energy Integration Planning Study for the Chilliwack Landing neighbourhood was announced by the City of Chilliwack Thursday.
The energy planning study is being funded with $22,500 in federal gas tax money earmarked for strategic planning projects focused on sustainable infrastructure and energy management.
The Landing area has "unique potential" for integrated energy management, according to a press release from the city on Friday, because of the resources clustered there. The area encompasses city-owned facilities like the arena, pool, and cultural centre, along with the hospital, schools and residential development.
Chilliwack's wastewater treatment plant and sanitary pump station on Wolfe Road are also nearby, offering potential for heat sources in the future.
The proposed study will require coordination of stakeholders from the city to Fraser Health, School District #33, the Province of BC, and the private sector. Study objectives are to identify and quantify heating and cooling supplies and demands in the Chilliwack Landing neighbourhood, identify potential energy solutions and barriers, and recommend next steps to advance the project.
Economic feasibility assessments would also be undertaken.
The federal Gas Tax Fund supports infrastructure priorities, including projects that help communities develop Integrated Community Sustainability (ICS) Plans. Based on local needs strategic projects are geared to helping communities build long-term plans to manage local infrastructure renewal and achieve positive environmental results.