Feds, FCM contribute $9M to net-zero fire station in Peterborough
The federal government, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, announced plans to contribute more than $9 million toward the construction of a new net-zero fire station in Peterborough.
The money, which is being provided through the FCM’s Green Municipal Fund, is split between approximately $1.2 million in grants and $8.1 million in loans.
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 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.
"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,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “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."
The Green Municipal Fund helps local governments switch to sustainable practices faster. Its unique mix of funding, resources and training gives municipalities the tools they need to build resiliency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.