Refrigeration Optimization Program (OPTER)

Program description

As part of its efforts to modernize Québec hockey arenas and curling rinks, the Agence de l’efficacité énergétique (AEE) is encouraging the use of energy efficient refrigeration equipment. This program supports owners of arenas in an effort to optimize existing refrigeration systems. Apart from the substantial amount of energy they consume, the systems often use refrigerants that are harmful to the environment, as they produce greenhouse gases that could be curbed or eliminated altogether. Synthetic refrigerants can be replaced with natural refrigerants such as ammonia, which pollutes very little and can be up to 30% more efficient than conventional refrigerants.

This program is financed as part of the PACC action plan (Plan d'action sur les changements climatiques 2006-2012).

Program objectives

The goal of the refrigeration optimization program (OPTER) is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. It has three main objectives:

optimizing heat recovery systems by integrating the refrigeration, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
adapting the refrigeration system to climactic conditions in Québec
using more environmentally safe refrigerants and reducing the amount of refrigerants in the systems.

Eligibility

Only the owner of the facility may apply for and receive the financial aid available through the program. To be eligible, the applicant must certify that:

he has made the decision to acquire equipment that meets the requirements of the program, and that the eligible equipment will be delivered to the project site and duly installed and put into operation
he has the authority and power to proceed with such purchases
he has the human, financial and technical resources required for the successful completion of the project.

Eligible infrastructures

To be eligible, a building must:

contain one or more ice surfaces (for hockey, curling, figure skating, speed skating, or other sports or recreational activities)
contain heated indoor areas
be equipped with a heating and ventilation system
be equipped with ice-making machinery.

New construction projects and major projects to renovate or replace an existing facility are also eligible. However, facilities that have received a financial contribution from a public organization within the past ten years for the purchase and installation of a system that is similar to those covered by this program are not eligible.

Training

The training offered introduces managers and technicians to the ecological, energy and economic benefits of upgrading refrigeration systems in a hockey arena or curling rink. Please contact us for more information.

Feasibility study

The feasibility study is a technical and cost-based evaluation of energy efficiency measures and means of reducing greenhouse gases for hockey and curling rinks. Each proposed measure includes an estimated ROI (return on investment).

Implementation

The program enables owners to install more energy efficient equipment during renovations or for new construction projects. Owners improve the energy performance of their buildings, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit from recurrent savings for years to come.