Strathcona County goes green with new electric ice re-surfacers

Strathcona County has added three new state-of-the-art electric (EV) ice re-surfacers to its fleet, thanks in part to a grant from the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC). This represents another step on the County’s path to a greener future for the community.

“Every action counts towards our shared environmental responsibilities. By switching to EV ice re-surfacers, we are reducing our environmental impact, saving money, and providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for our residents and visitors who use our arenas,” says Mayor Rod Frank.

The EV machines have other benefits beyond preserving indoor air quality and fuel savings.

“These new ice re-surfacers are much more efficient, cleaner and quieter than our old ones,” says James Thomas, Manager of Fleet Operations in Strathcona County.

“The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC) grant presented a great opportunity for us to replace our current ice re-surfacers which had reached their end-of-life with an upgraded version that supported Strathcona County’s green priorities. It really is a win-win for us.” The MCCAC, a partnership of Alberta Municipalities, Rural Municipalities of Alberta and the Government of Alberta, provides funding, technical assistance, and education to help Alberta municipalities adopt energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. Funding for the Electric Vehicles for Municipalities Program was provided by the Government of Alberta.

“As a parent, I know how important arenas are to communities, and how much energy they can use,” says Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “Energy efficiency upgrades can carry a high price tag, which is why we’re pleased to help fund this project. These electric ice re-surfacers will help lower utility costs while reducing emissions and supporting family fun at the rink.”

Strathcona County received $100,000 from the MCCAC’s Electric Vehicle Charging Programs towards the purchase of the EV ice re-surfacers and the installation of charging stations at its facilities.

The new EV ice re-surfacers can be seen in action at the Sherwood Park Arena and Sports Centre and Millennium Place Sports Centre.

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595