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FAQs Energy Retrofit

Why is the RA Centre doing this project during the winter? Why not this past summer or waiting until next spring?
  • There are many factors that have influenced the timing of the project including securing project funding and supply chain disruptions that have delayed the delivery of parts and equipment.

  • For example, the delivery times for equipment such as boilers and pumps have increased from three months to as long as nine months in certain cases.

  • We also received grant funding in September to support a substantial portion of this project that has made it possible to proceed. You can expect a public announcement and more details about this exciting news in the near future.

  • We acknowledge that the timing is not ideal, however, with these issues resolved we are now moving forward to ensure we can complete this important project in 2023.
 
Why weren’t we informed earlier?
  • Given some of the delays, we are only now in a position to share concrete information with you. This is a complex project due to the age and modular nature of our building and we have just recently finalized project plans and timing.

  • We have also been working closely with engineers over the last several weeks on the supplemental heating measures to minimize the impacts on members, staff and guests that we are now able to share.

  • We will continue to keep you updated on our efforts to mitigate the impacts on members as the project progresses.
 
How are you paying for this?
  • We have received grant funding in September to support a substantial portion of this project. You can expect a public announcement and more details about this exciting news in the near future. 
  • The project will also lower the energy and utility costs for the RA Centre which will free up capital for future facility investments to improve our member experience.
  
How will the temporary heating impact me?
  • We acknowledge that changing the heating infrastructure during the winter months is not ideal and there may be disruptions and cooler than normal temperatures in parts of the building this winter. 

  • All efforts are being made to minimize the impact on members, staff and guests. Supplemental heating will safely enhance the comfort of those in the building.  Areas that may be impacted include the Lower East Wing, LifeFIT Centre, change rooms, the Outaouais and Courtside Rooms as well as Clark Hall. At this time, we do not anticipate any heating disruption in the other areas of the facility.

  • The RA will continue to keep you updated on what to expect and our continued efforts to mitigate the impact on members, staff, and guests as the project progresses.
 
What are the project benefits for RA Centre members?
  • For members, the project will provide upgraded lighting and a modern HVAC system incorporating automated systems to improve comfort in the building. 
  • The project will also lower the energy and utility costs for the RA Centre which will free up capital for future facility investments to improve our member experience. 
  • It will have significant long-term benefits to the RA Centre and our members while contributing towards our objective of the RA Centre being the go-to hub in the National Capital Region for the pursuit of lifelong sport, recreation, and wellness.


Is this project related to the Confederation Heights heating loop and redevelopment? What is the government’s involvement in the project?
  • This project will make the RA Centre on Riverside Drive independent of the Confederation Heights heating loop. Our current equipment is based on antiquated technology that is expensive to operate and not environmentally sustainable. 

  • This project will help transform the RA Centre into an efficient, climate-resilient facility. That means lower energy consumption and utility costs, and a smaller carbon footprint through reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

  • We received grant funding in September to support a substantial portion of this project. You can expect a public announcement and more details about this exciting news in the near future.
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