UWindsor installs innovative chiller to reduce GHG emissions
The University of Windsor has taken a big step toward reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and meeting its sustainability targets.
The institution announced late last month that construction crews had installed a new dual drive, electric-steam turbine chiller at its Energy Conversion Centre.
The unit, which is the first of its kind to be installed at a Canadian university, will drive the heating, cooling and ventilation systems of 30 buildings across campus. Its installation marks one of the largest sustainability initiatives UWindsor has undertaken this year and is part of an ambitious plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45 percent in seven years and net zero by 2050.
"This milestone project marks our unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency," said Gillian Heisz, University of Windsor’s vice-president, Finance and Operations. "It not only supports our sustainability objectives but also hopefully inspires others to embrace similar measures."
Located within the Energy Conversion Centre on Patricia Street, the York YST chiller uses energy-efficient electricity, complemented by alternative steam energy. By combining these two energy sources, the advanced hybrid technology will reduce the equivalent of 8,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year by minimizing natural gas usage and saving an estimated $1 million annually.
By using the chiller, the university expects to achieve 82 percent of its 2030 emission reduction target.