TRU intending to build and operate cleaner energy system for Kamloops campus
KAMLOOPS — Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has announced it will build, own and operate an on-campus energy system for its Kamloops campus, pending approval from the BC Utilities Commission.
In partnership with Creative Energy, which works in innovative district energy solutions, TRU says its system is expected to offset over 100,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over 30 years, the equivalent of planting a 4,000-acre forest that’s approximately 16 times the size of the school’s Kamloops campus.
“Higher education institutions across North America have an opportunity to meaningfully respond to the realities of climate change,” Creative Energy President and CEO Krishnan Iyer states. “Using innovative systems designed to match the existing campus buildings and surrounding environment, TRU’s Kamloops campus will continue to be a comfortable learning environment for both faculty and students for many years to come.”
TRU says low-carbon energy will be provided by an air source and water source heat pump system, powered by renewable electricity from BC Hydro. The design will include a “living lab” to show students the energy technology in action. TRU adds each Kamloops campus building will have its existing natural-gas boilers decommissioned once they’re connected to the new system.