Ontario Construction News staff writer
Markham District Energy (MDE) has announced the groundbreaking of the world’s largest wastewater energy transfer (WET) project at its Low Carbon Energy Centre (LCEC) in Markham.
“Today represents a milestone in our 25-year history,” said Bruce Ander, MDE President and CEO. “The WET project not only further positions MDE as a leader in innovative energy solutions and accelerates our path to becoming a net-zero district energy supplier, but is a representation of the outcome when there is cooperation and strategic support from all levels of government.”
When constructed, the WET project, which will utilize the Region of York’s wastewater system, is expected to reduce MDE’s carbon emissions from the production of thermal energy by over 30,000 tonnes per year, significantly advancing MDE towards its goal of becoming net-zero by 2050 and contributing to the overall emissions reductions provided by the LCEC, which already utilizes technology to reduce carbon emissions by more than 13,000 tonnes per year.
The utility currently provides heating and cooling to over 15 million square feet across 240 buildings. The system uses underground pipes to deliver hot and chilled water, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 35%. The goal is to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
The project includes a new heat recovery system and a biomass pellet boiler, which together will cut emissions by over 700,000 tonnes of CO2e. This means the energy network will use less natural gas, benefiting more people and businesses with low-carbon energy.
In June, the Canada Growth Fund announced a carbon contract with Markham District Energy to use wastewater energy technology. This project could cut over 177,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions in the next decade. Additionally, the Canada Infrastructure Bank and CIBC have provided $270 million to help expand Markham District Energy, reducing emissions by 33,700 tonnes of CO2e.
Markham District Energy plans to reduce emissions by 910,700 tonnes of CO2e and expand its low-carbon energy network in downtown Markham.
“The Green Municipal Fund helps innovative projects like Markham District Energy move forward by reducing risk and attracting private investment,” said Geoff Stewart, president, Federation of Canadian Municipalities. “Together, we’re making our communities cleaner and more prosperous.”